La Città Eterna

For Valentine's Day we decided to take a trip to Rome, the place where romance was born. It seems that every corner you turn in Rome you are face to face with something really amazing. I wish I had better words to describe what was so amazing about the city. Even though tourists fill every possible inch of sidewalk it is easy to disappear into the beauty of it all and feel like you are the only person there, and easily the only person ever to experience such beauty and romance. We started our first day at the Circus Maximus (Circo Massimo) where ancient Romans used to watch chariot races 100,000 people at a time.
The Colosseum was next up on the John Huntley tour of Rome. We consider it kind of like a Lane Stadium with weapons, a place to go with 55,000 of your closest friends to catch a violent show. Call it what you will, it is stunning.



Less historical maybe, but no less amazing, was this stairwell to the bathroom in a small cafe. More alarming than the stairwell was the surprise black-out mid-visit.

The Trevi Fountain was swarming with people all trying to get their return trip to Rome guaranteed by throwing coins into the fountain.   It is estimated that 3,000 Euros ($4,071.60) are thrown into the fountain per day.  According to Wikipedia, the money is used to help fund a grocery for folks from underprivileged situations. 
While waiting for John to come back from his coin-toss I saw a couple get engaged.  One of the most beautiful sights was from the top of the Spanish steps.  The best of luck had us arriving as the sun was setting over Rome.  The view of St. Peter's Basilica was breathtaking. 
We decided to visit Saint Peter's Square on Saturday night before going back to the hotel.  That was truly one of the most unbelievable sights.  There really are no words...