Friday, June 24, 2011

I Remember ... Walking Tour of Rome

Thursday morning we woke up at 7:30 refreshed and ready to see the sights and sounds of Rome. With jet lag and fatigue behind us we felt we had adjusted well. We still had two full days on our own and there was so much to see.
After dining on a delicious brunch in our hotel we set out for the sights closest to us ... The Victor Emmanuel Monument, or as some have nicknamed,"The Wedding Cake." We climbed the stairs to the top and had a remarkable view. Below we could see a major transportation hub of Rome ... a circular roundabout that makes it nearly impossible for pedestrians crossing the street. A melody of horns honking, sirens blaring and much activity fills the air. I recorded this "chorus" on my iPhone in order to be carried back to this wonderful memory.
We made our way to the back side of "The Wedding Cake" and found a view of ancient Rome and the ruins. Despite the warming temperatures we journeyed out to get a closer look at the Tiber River, the Forum, Palatine Hill, Circus Maximus and the Colosseum. Wow! Hard to comprehend that these buildings are over 2,000 years old! It's amazing to see with one's own eyes and to stroll through so much history.














The temperatures continued rising and as we made our way back to the Cosmopolita, we stopped for a small can of Coke ... 3.50 euro each! Yikes ... spendy, but oh so refreshing on such a warm day. It was nice to have a little down time at the hotel to plan our afternoon touring strategy. Our next adventure includes the Pantheon neighborhood ... and perhaps, beyond.
Rome ... I have fallen in love with you!

1 comment:

Charlotte P said...

What beautiful pictures. Thanks for sharing with us!!!