We had an absolutely amazing time in Rome on our third day here. First we had a hearty breakfast - plentiful with meats, cheeses, eggs, bread, milk, cereal, and other outstanding breakfast foods! After that we were off to another amazing day of adventures, including visits to the Roman Forum, the Colosseum, and the Church of San Clemente.
First we were off to the Roman Forum, which is where many significant Ancient Roman monuments are standing. On our drive to the Forum we caught a glimpse of the Colosseum, it was huge! It made us super excited for the day's events to come. When we arrived at the Forum we initially stopped at the Arch of Titus, it was outstanding. The Arch, built by the Emperor Titus, was about 30 feet tall and had carvings throughout, which were very intricate, with a menorah Next we saw huge structures like the Basilica of Maxentius, the Temple of Romulus, and the House of the Vestal Virigins. All were incredible.
Next we had some free time to explore the forum and eat some lunch. We went to a small cafe by the Capitoline Hill and had some amazing pasta and chicken. Then we hurried over to the Colosseum because of a sudden downpour. After we arrived at the Colosseum, we had to wait a little bit to enter because we needed to dry off from the rain. Linda, our tour guide, was able to get us a unique, once in a lifetime, reservation to see both the upper and lower levels of the Colosseum. The lower level was especially interesting because during the Ancient Roman times you would only see it if you were a gladiator, lion, or slave, while the upper level provided a great view.
Finally we were off to see the San Clemente Church. In the church, one of the oldest in Rome, we saw a great mosaic of Jesus and walked into the lower levels of the church which housed an even older church. The lower levels were very claustrophobic and bit frightening, but at the same time very interesting. We got to see the temple of the priests of an ancient Roman cult called a Mithraeum.
To end our day, we went out to eat at a fancy Italian restaurant. We all agreed that it was some of the best food we've had on this trip. The first choice was eggplant and meatballs. Our second course was a mix of two different pastas, one with bacon and cheese and the other with bacon and artichokes. Lastly, we had a multitude of desserts including cheesecake, and a unique Italian dessert with wine, custard, and other spices. The reactions were mixed.
We then hopped on the bus and went back to our hotel where we passed out from exhuastion.
Hope all is well in Evanston, and you guys miss us as much as we miss you
Can't wait to be back on the blog!
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