Rome, the Eternal City, resonates with many citizens of the Western world as many of our traditions, laws, architecture and culture originated in that civilization. Although most photos you see of the Colosseum are of the exterior, the interior is far more interesting. It is amazing how complex it is. There were elevators worked on pulleys to bring up the gladiators and animals that were used in big spectacles. There were awnings that were pulled out to shade the wealthy citizens and those were operated by naval officers as they were considered sails. The inaugural games were held in AD 80 and the arena held 55,000 people.
The Forum dates back two to three hundred years before Christ. It was in the 2nd century BC that the food courts were replaced by law courts and business centers. The Temple of Saturn was where the annual December Saturnalia celebrations were held. During that week people exchanged gifts, schools were closed and even slaves had time off. This is the predecessor to the Christian Christmas.
Villa Borghese and the park around it was designed in 1605. Now it houses some lovely art, one of the most impressive examples of which is "The Rape of Proserpina" by Bernini. The detail of Pluto's hand dimpling Proserpina's thigh demonstrates one of the unique qualities of Carrara marble: the ability to be worked so that it can appear soft.
Mt. Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD and ultimately released a hundred thousand times the thermal energy released by the atom bombs that destroyed Hiroshima and Nagasaki. It is one of the most dangerous volcanoes in the world and last erupted in 1944. In 79 AD over 1000 people died but exact numbers aren't known. Nor are there precise numbers for the population at that time, but the range is between 20,000 and 35,000. The ash that buried the city is from 13-20 ft. which is why preservation is prevalent.
In a busy city, then as now, there were fast food operations. The holes in the counter are where pots of food would have rested.
The Amalfi Coast is famous, or infamous, for its narrow, winding road that hugs the sides of mountains. Positano is a lovely montage of colorful homes clinging to the mountain with spectacular views of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Capri, just by its name, conjures up images of famous celebrities and their yachts cavorting in gorgeous blue water. The island is in the Bay of Naples and has a lot of natural beauty to offer in addition to delicious food and world-class shopping.
