Roma! Part Due

It has snowed in Italy! One of the worse storms in many years came through this week, dumping 4-6 inches of snow on the region of Umbria.  So needless to say our trip to Assisi on Friday was cancelled.  We were all presented with a 3 day weekend in which we had to entertain ourselves.  Originally there was talks of flights to Dublin, or maybe a weekend trip to Greece. But Berta and I's thoughts lay somewhere closer. We had originally planned on returning to Rome on our way back from our 3 day trip to Naples. But when presented with a 3 day weekend we couldn't resist.  We booked a hostel on Friday, which was located close to the Vatican, and caught the evening train to Rome.  We arrived later than expected (our train was delayed) and walked in the cold to our hostel, passing the snow covered Vatican on the way.

The next morning we got up early and walked all the way around the city walls to the entrance of the Museo Vaticani.  We only stood in line for about 20 minutes, as the line was very short because of the cold.  The anticipation for something I had heard about since I was little was intense! I was beyond excited! Pictures could never do the Grandeur of these halls justice.  The history and craftsmanship of the sculptures and ceilings and, and, and, well just everything! It is truly amazing to behold.

Unfortunately, we were not permitted to take pictures in Sistine Chapel.  It was breathtaking to see.  The paintings seem to pop off of the walls and ceiling.  There are so many details to see that when you think you have scrutinized all of them, you see a new one.  It was simply amazing.

After the Museum, we walked back around to the Basilica and stood in the very long line to get in. We were not prepared for the amazing sight that met our eyes.  You can learn about it all you want, but to truly be there was awe inspiring. 

After exploring there we made our we over to St. Peter in Chains.  This small church contains a great works of art, The Moses.  He was very impressive to see.

The next day we took the bus to Piazza Venezia.  We then meandered our way up the Corso all the way to Piazza del Popolo.  This Square has many statues, 2 churches, and a fountain with an obelisk.  It is a large square.  I did not get any pictures of it, unfortunately.

This coming weekend it is off to Florence!! Can't wait!

-M