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Thursday, May 30, 2019

Colosseum & the Imperial Forums

From the Basilica di San Giovanni, it's a straight shot up to the Colosseum.


My first impression when I saw it again (my last trip was in 2010) was that it was clean! The Colosseum had been cleaned from top to bottom and it was beautiful. I didn't go inside this time but I definitely recommend reading Rick Steves' recommendations on how to get tickets and when to tour. The lines are ridiculously long.


Next to the Colosseum is the Arch of Constantine. It's decorated with recycled carvings from other buildings. 


The Roman Forum is nearby. It was the political, religious and commercial center of Rome and included temples and halls of justice. There's also a long wait to get into the Forum.


Instead, we crossed Via dei Fori Imperiali to reach the Temple of Augustus. The four white columns were part of the Temple of Mars. This is visible from the street and there is no waiting and no tickets to purchase. 


Continuing further down the road, you'll find Trajan's Column. The 140-foot column tells the story of  Trajan's defeat of Dacia (modern-day Romania). The column is hollow with a spiral staircase inside. If unwound, it would cover the length of 2 football fields. Originally, the column was painted in bright colors. 


Toppin the Trajan Column is St. Peter, with his emblematic keys. He was installed in the 1500s.



2019 04 10

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