Saturday, January 1, 2011

The History and Chaos of Rome

Rome is filled with ancient history…but also filled with masses of people!

On a positive note, you simply cannot replace or replicate the history of Rome, with the ancient ruins of the Coliseum, Vatican City – home and country of the Pope, the Parthenon, Spanish Steps, and Trevi Fountain, as well as countless ancient Roman remains, statues, museums, and historical buildings.

On the ‘not-so-positive side’, it seemed like everyone in Italy, half of the United States, and many; many others were all enjoying the sites of Rome at the same time! At the Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain I could hardly move without being surrounded by massive crowds. Streets were literally filled with people, and the interesting thing is that December is the ‘off peak’ season for tourism in Rome; I can’t imagine the chaos in summer!

The Coliseum and Palatine Hill were my ‘Revivals of Rome’ and were the two elements of the bustling city that ‘refreshed and revived’ me from the massive crowds:

The Coliseum was my favorite part of Rome! At night time the Coliseum is highlighted by spot lights throughout the entry ways and many openings. In the day time you are able to go inside the Coliseum and see the ruins covered in green moss and walk around the circle-like maze.

The Palatine is the hillside right beside the Coliseum, holding the preserved ruins of ancient Rome. You can pay to go into the Palatine and walk around, enjoying the park-like setting full of history! Thankfully, we were blessed with great weather, the sun was shining and the air was cool and refreshing, making the stroll along the ancient ruins a real joy. The Palatine also provides great pictures of overlooking the Coliseum from the hilltop.

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