Rome, Italy

On Thursday, June 13th we docked in Civitavecchia, Italy and boarded a tour bus headed for the ancient ruins of Imperial Rome.

Matthew and Nicole made wishes and tossed coins into the very special Trevi Fountain.  According to tradition, a coin tossed into the water guarantees a visitor's return to Rome.

Trevi Fountain
Rome, Italy

Next we saw Circus Maximus, a huge stadium where the Romans raced their chariots.

Circus Maximus
Rome, Italy

Our final stop was the Roman Forum, the heart of ancient Rome where the ensemble of ruins reflects the advanced society the Romans created.  Julius Caesar is buried here, and one can see the tall columns of the original Temple of Castor.

Temple of Castor
Rome, Italy

The nearby Arch of Constantine is very magnificent, the largest and best preserved arch in Rome.

Arch of Constantine
Rome, Italy

One of the best preserved monuments in the Forum is the Temple of Antoninus and Faustina.


Temple of Antoninus and Faustina
Rome, Italy

Last, but not least is the very impressive Roman Colosseum.  Construction was started in 72 AD by Emperor Vespasian.  It took 8 years to complete and is made of travertine stone.  Even today you can walk up the stairs to the grandstands to view the arena where the gladiators fought.  Lions, tigers and elephants were brought in to entertain the 50,000 Romans in attendance.



Roman Colosseum
Rome, Italy



Roman Colosseum - Matthew, Nicole & Greg
Rome, Italy