Day 21 - Rome

Rome was H.O.T.  That’s the summary from today. It was 100 degrees and humid and there was just barely relief from it in the shade. Today was a big day for the boys though, with a visit to the colosseum and ancient ruins. So we laughed it off and drank lots of water to make it though.

We started our morning with Capitoline Hill and the Capitoline Museum. There were so many beautiful paintings, ancient statues, and a gorgeous view of the Rome skyline. 

After pizza and gelato for lunch, we walked around the imperial forum, taking our time to admire the ruins while reading information about what we were looking at. It’s hard to believe that you can be looking at structures from 80AD! We then walked to the colosseum to admire it from the outside. It is truly a wonder! We rested with drinks and more gelato before our ticket time for entering the colosseum. Inside, we did the Rick Steves audio guide and admired the history of this magnificent structure. The boy’s marveled at the size and tried to imagine what it would have been like to see gladiators there. We also discussed the sobering reality that the events were gruesome and that this structure and others were built by slaves. Great conversations to teach the boys about so that history doesn’t repeat itself. 

After the colosseum we ate at a delightful small restaurant that served the most delicious pasta! The boys had spaghetti with clams, they’re pretty adventurous eaters! Then we went back to see the colosseum at night, a stunning sight! We’re thankful for the opportunity to see these historic places with the boys, but also ready to leave the hot city of Rome. Tomorrow we catch a ferry to the beach!