Having had no dinner last night, we were eager to get breakfast. It had to be quick because we had 8:30 timed admission tickets to the Colosseum. With no time to investigate, we picked a place. Breakfast was good but outrageously expensive. Then it was off to the most famous Roman ruin – the Colosseum. There is no evidence Christians were ever sacrificed there, but all the other stories we’ve heard about what the Romans did in the Colosseum are true. They had all-day shows that generally started with the slaughter of exotic animals such as lions and bears. That was followed with the public execution of those convicted of capital crimes such as disagreeing with the government. The day ended with gladiator fights. There were gladiator teams, each of which had their fans. It was a lot like football, except we are somewhat less violent today.

After the Colosseum, there are plenty of other ruins in the area. We saw several before I got bored with a few columns for this god and a busted wall for that ruler. I found a spot to enjoy some shade and informal music. (Very good Italian regae!) I had a great time. It was one espresso short of perfection. By noon everybody was tired of ruins. We opted for a 2-hour lunch. We’ve been eating really well, but this food was extraordinarily good and the cost was quite reasonable.

After lunch Rick and Suzy went their way. Danita and I went to the Pantheon. The Romans built this in the first century and rebuilt it in 140 AD (more or less). I think it is the most extraordinary building in Rome because it is by far the most beautiful building the Romans ever built. And it stands today looking almost exactly as it did in 140. Plus it just happens to have a dome of extraordinary precision which was also the largest dome in the world for 1000 years. The Pantheon is quite impressive and worthy of our admiration. After visiting the Pantheon, we had an espresso, then just relaxed. We wanted a light dinner, and settled on gelato.

Roman Ruins

The Pantheon