St. Peters Square and Trevi Fountain

After the Colosseum Tour today (which was beyond words), we had lunch at a lovely cafe, then went back to our Hotel to rest. Barry, Jackie, and Lynn took naps for a few hours, while Bob and Nathan walked Rome exploring the sights! When the “nappers” got up at 5:00 p.m. Italy time, we all went to see the sights in the evening. St. Peter’s Square, the Spanish Steps, and Trevi Fountain–the most amazing was the Trevi Fountain with the lights and true Italy ambiance. Trevi Fountain was created in 1762 and signifies the wealth of the abundance of water in ancient Rome. Coins that us tourists throw into the fountain each day are used to feed the poor. The Spanish Steps signify the Steps to the Spanish Embassy

, and were built in the 1700s. Every where you go, there are woman gypsies with cups begging for money–you must walk on. Additionally, there are numerous vendors selling lovely roses–which they say “are free”. They approach the woman in the party and give them the “free” rose, then go to the gentleman and ask for the money. In Rome, never take a “free” rose (Jackie and I never did).

The shops are amazing, with so much merchandise. Both Jackie and Lynn purchased Pandora charms in the shape of Italy for their bracelets. Did I mention that yesterday, at the Vatican, both Jackie and I bought rosaries. Being a devout Protestant, I have never purchased a rosary before, but after my prayers in the Sistine Chapel, I felt compelled to do so. For those special people in my life, you know prayers were sent Above to all of you. Bob said that Rick Steves said in his book, when you visit the Vatican, and you are not a Catholic, you must become Catholic for one day. So, I took his advice, and did that–although, I am back to being a devout Protestant today…..I will still treasure my Rosary, and Jackie is teaching me the blessings it signifies through prayer.

It is 12:30 a.m., and we must be at the Train Station tomorrow at 9:00 a.m. to head to San Gimigmano–more pictures of today will be posted tomorrow since I must get to sleep.

One more important fact–my missing luggage arrived this evening! It felt like Christmas, and just in time since we leave Rome tomorrow!