Wednesday, June 18, 2014

More Rome - Colosseum, Roman Forum, St. Paul's, Piazza Navona, and more

Today's activities began with a visit to the Roman Forum. We saw so much...the Senate, the Temple of Julius Caesar, the Temple of the Vestal Virgins, Titus' Arch,and so much more. It is amazing to walk the streets of the forum and consider all of those who have done the same before you. 

Then it was on to the Colosseum. We had an incredible tour of the underground portions of this impressive structure that seated over 70,000 people in its day. We also got the opportunity to go to the highest level and take in the magnificent views of the city as well as the Colosseum. There are no words to describe this experience. 

Following lunch we headed to St. Paul's Outside the Walls. This beautiful basilica was constructed on the site where St. Paul was beheaded. Many of the Footsteps participants said this visit was one of the highlights of the trip for them. The basilica was relatively empty, and it was east to be overwhelmed by the beauty of this structure which houses the bones of Paul. Also, we had a brief service of blessing in the Chapel of St. Stephen - the first Christian martyr. It was moving for us all. 

Our time this evening ended with a fun time in Piazza Navona, had a marvelous dinner at Old Bear Taverna, and the world's finest gelato at Giolitti's (Google them at your own risk - it's that good)!

We depart tomorrow. We are sad to go, but ready to be home. This has been a fantastic journey with some of the most amazing people. We are thankful. 

Thanks for your prayers. 







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