Blogs from Rome, Lazio, Italy, Europe - page 4

http://www.heygo.com 1st March- The Colosseum in Rome My first virtual tour with Sara in Rome, I had read that she was a very experienced guide & although I have visited the Colosseum some years ago I thought I’d join the trip on Monday. Construction of the Colosseum began between 70 and 72 CE. The completed structure was dedicated in 80 CE. During the Roman Empire and under the motto of "Bread and Circuses" the Colosseum (known then as Flavian Amphitheatre) allowed more than 50,000 people to enjoy its finest spectacles. The exhibitions of exotic animals, executions of prisoners, recreations of battles and gladiator fights kept the Roman people entertained for years. The Colosseum remained active for over 500 years. The last recorded games in history were celebrated in the 6th century. Since the 6th century the ... read more

During the covid-19 period additional rules were applied to the ones which were put in place in 2019. The steps surrounding the monument remained closed to prevent overcrowding. In addition, the social distancing rule of 1 metre, and the mask-wearing law which are currently in place throughout Italy, were being enforced by the municipal police and the military. On August 21st 2020 the police handed out the first fine of €400 to a visitor at the Trevi fountain who refused to wear a mask. (23 Aug 20, The Local Italy, ''Covid-19 : Rome's First Fine for not wearing mask handed out at Trevi Fountain'') The current law, states that all people must wear a mask whilst they are outside, as well as inside. The mask should be worn over both the nose and mouth, apart from ... read more

Never thought we'd do 'sports travel' but after several years of cheering on Scotland at Murrayfield we didn't renew our season ticket this year but decided to splash out on a trip instead to support the team on an away game, and Rome ticked other 'weekend away' boxes so despite the depressingly high flight costs (seriously) we just had to go for it. As usual we took early flights and therefore by the time we got the train from the airport to the centre of town, found the hotel and got sorted we were a bit shattered, also unnerved to see the Covid19 outbreak up in Lombardy. So it was just a stroll around and found the Colosseum, a marker to say 'we're in Rome' and also in the late afternoon sun a pleasing moment. Not ... read more

A last day to revisit some sights...tommorrow will most likely be taken up preparing for the big flights home. The Colosso (forum) can't leave without witnessing it's grandeur one last time. A shot of the Arch of Constantine. The Appian Way with all it's columns. The Trevi Fountain, we were so early they were still cleaning out the euros from the day before....so no water running through the fountain. Columns being made use of today in Piazza di Pietra of the stock exchange building which was once the Temple of Hadrian in 145 AD. Pantheon & it's big hole in the ceiling....now that is clever. With the tomb of Vittorio Emanuele who was before Mussolini. Back to Piazza Nuova....the Four Rivers Fountain where we started our holiday. The Column of Marcus Aurelius (Roman Emperor). The Spagna ... read more

Two and a half hours and we are in Rome, ITALY, which is a very busy city with a population of almost five million. This is a picture snapping haven for Chris. In front of the Trevi Fountain, the tourists are 10 rows deep to view the marble center figure of Neptune standing on rocks. SNAP. The Pantheon is a temple dedicated to “all the gods”. Light emits only through a nine meter circular opening in the dome. SNAP. Of course it is important to walk up the 12 flights of the Spanish Steps. SNAP. A new day and onto the subway to arrive at the Vatican. While standing in line, a fellow convinces us to join a group with a guide and a four hour tour. Good decision as 38,000 people visit per day. The ... read more