"Rome is probably the Italian city where I have lived the longest, without ever asking myself why." - Calvino
Rome in three and a half days.
Three and a half days of museums, churches, and navigating the cobblestone streets, encountering more history than can possibly be absorbed in such a short amount of time.
Seeing works of art by Caravaggio. Michelangelo. Raphael. Bernini. Borromini. Matisse. Dali. Carracci. Bramante. Munch. Plus countless others.
Listening to Prof Doll give not only a history, but also a depth to every sight we saw.
Finding sanctuary in the most unlikely of places.
Having my sandal break before entering the Vatican and holding it together with a band-aid from Alexis I while trying to manage the crowds of people.
Visiting the catacombs and learning that they were more of a joyous place of celebration instead of a dark place of mourning
Listening to the smooth sounds of a man playing the piano during a pasta dinner with friends.
Playing eye-spy in the Roman ruins for all the cats that inhabit them.
Standing in the Pantheon, watching the rain fall through the hole in the roof, feeling it upon my face.
The start of conversations about thoughts, struggles, and frustrations that will continue to be discussed throughout the semester.
Mornings of cappuccinos and pastries for breakfast.
Lunch on the Spanish steps while warding off attack pigeons.
Family dinners in the apartments full of good food, good conversation, and plenty of laughter.
Nights of gelato with cream, live music, and walking to either the Pantheon or the Trevi fountain.
And finally, home, to Orvieto, to my first piece of real mail from a dear friend at Gordon.
Pictures to follow shortly.
