Author Archives: roxanne

Many thoughts as I leave Europe towards my next destination. Spain, France and Italy have been impressive . From the ancient ruins, to the devastations from wars to the most amazing artwork through creative and gifted artisans, Europe stands above the rest. While Rome reminds me of how mankind can go from glory and riches to fall and devastation, Guernica reminds me of the cruelty of man to the power of love and freedom.

All in all, it reminds me that humankind is a species full of brutality, power, self absorption, but has another side of creativity, brilliancy, love and empathy. The Roman Empire reveals how a government goes from upheaval to new power to control to abuse of power to upheaval again and seems to repeat itself. Will we never learn?… and where are we now in that cycle. The Roman Empire lasted 1000 years… where are we now?

The ancient Romans date as far back as to 500 BC. It is amazing what they were capable of. Walking through this ancient civilization makes one realize that we are but a speck on the timeline of humanity.

Any visit to Rome makes one truely appreciate the art, culture and impact that the Roman civilization had on the world to come.

A country in itself, Vatican City holds the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica. Michaelangelo out did himself as he painted biblical stories on the ceilings and walls of the Sistine Chapel. It took him 4 years for the ceiling.

St Peter’s Basilica is a gem itself. A beautiful church designed by Renensance architects, including Michaelangelo. This is where St Peter and other popes are interned.

The Vatican museums are also a sight to behold. Magnificent artwork and sculptures abound. If you can try to reserva a night tour that includes happy hour, refreshments and a visit while the museum in closed to the public.

Awestruck…

Rome has cobble stoned streets, excavations going on, ancient ruins throughout the city… no skyscrapers – just ancient buildings adding to the enchanting scenery. A place to return because you surely cannot see it all in 3 days let alone a week. You step back to the past as you walk through the Forum, the Pantheon, the Colosseum and the many museums. Of course the Vatican is so beautiful, with Michaelangelo’s Sistine Chapel. Amazing work.

The Colesseum and the gladiators to me represent the gruesome side of man. There were battles to the death and “entertaining” ways to punish and kill the criminals. It seemed to be a way for the Roman’s to enjoy their power over man, nature and even death. I can’t get into it, but, I can say, it was a monumental feat just to construct the Collesseum.

Well we left Tuscany after having a magical experience there. The farm stay was awesome, the food delicious and the people were fabulous. Hope someday to return.

On to Orvieto – an interesting place. Built on the edge of a volcano. Lots of underground caves that are man made. Dates back to the 1300s. Many ancient runs and excavations.

So many interesting things about these places in Europe. The history blows me away. We are on to Rome, where I’ve been told mankind began.