Rome

Leaving Siena we drove to Camping Tiber which was just North of Rome where they provided a free shuttle bus to catch the train to Rome.

Loud squeaky breaks and was colourful in and out ....

 

The next morning we caught a miserable looking train which was very basic to Rome. Here we were on a Sunday in Rome with Helena keeping an eye open for the Pope!! Needless to say she didn't see him but that was probably because it was a little wet and he kept under cover for the day. BUT we did see some amazing buildings in Rome and managed to see 8 of the 10 top sites. Pretty good for a pair of amateurs.

Keeping an eye on some old stones

I'm sure just being in Rome can be overwhelming for many but it was quite awe inspiring - a place stepped in history but crowded with tourists.

Saint Peter's Square - which is the biggest square in Rome and a wonderful Egyptian obelisk stands in the middle

The Colosseum  - a beautiful building, the ancient splendour of which is still clearly visible.

Trevi Fountain - one of the most famous and characteristic places in Rome with a legend guaranteeing your return to Rome if you throw a coin and drink the water. We did neither so I guess we won't be returning to Rome !

The Roman Forum which is the most famous place in ancient Rome but is in decay echoing the fate of Rome itself.

Monument to Victor Emmanuel II - the statue of Rome and the tomb of the Unknown Soldier are two remarkable ornamental and celebrative elements of this monument.

The Trinita dei Monti which are the monumental Spanish steps, the Piazza Navona which is located in the area of the ancient stadium. 


Three fountains adorn the square and the Pantheon which is the only pagan temple in classical style still almost intact in Rome.      
 

Inside the cathedral - quite awe inspiring

and a candle for those that has left us .....

We also met some lovely fellow campers. Dutch couple William and Ina who we will see when we visit the Netherlands and English couple John and Jenny who talked about their trip from Italy to Switzerland and 'Marcho' the dog. He was little and loved the attention he got with each new visitor.