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We were zombie-like in Zurich; but on the flight over the Alps, the Italian countryside and Mediterranean coast, a transformation occurred. The senses were stimulated, the body re-energized and the mind … well, focussed and ready to race. Finding and then fixing yourself in a place never before visited or experienced is one of life's greatest joys. An exhilarating feeling, to be savored for the few moments it lasts. Fully realizing where you ARE: on a different continent, in a different culture, and in my case, in the homeland of my father's ancestors. We made it Italy! First impressions
of Rome: How are we going to find our way around here? What does
that sign mean? What road are we on now? Hmmm, not so different from Boston
after all ... Then we had our first encounter with a motorbike, then another.
Next impressions: what a beautiful city. Greenery everywhere palm trees, flowering plants, tall sculpted pines. Our hotel was more in a neighborhood than a city setting, amidst elegant buildings in warm pastel colors surrounded by lush vegetation. And no skyscrapers to be found. My idea of "old" would be forever changed after a few days in Rome.
Next stop: the Pantheon.
A classical columned entrance, attached to an
Our walk continued .. too fast for my taste. I had to photograph on the run, where I would have loved to do more exploring. We stopped in the long rectangular Piazza Navona, where the Church of Sant'Agnese in Agone provided an elegant backdrop, and the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi the centerpiece.
Back on the bus, and we were soon in another "state" the Vatican, seeing the Pope performing Sunday mass. An unexpected thrill. St. Peter's square is immense, spectacular. From Bernini's plaza and architectural design, to Michelangelo's dome it's hard to imagine the genius and effort it took to design and build things so massive, so beautiful, so perfect. Because of the mass, the Basilica and Museums were not open ... so that meant a return trip.
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