My final day in Rome I saved the best for last or what you expect to the best… the Colosseum.
I had worried that I built this iconic symbol to be something more grand than what it was. Rome, so far during my trip, was extremely overwhelming. To make things worse rain had plagued the first leg of my trip and this made it difficult for me to enjoy standing outside the Vatican for 45 minutes in the line for the museum, or dinning al fresco or even viewing the Colosseum.
But when the moment came when I stepped out of the covered Metro platform into the wet cobblestone street the ancient Colosseum was standing tall and grey staring me in the face. I took shelter in its circular hall way that led me to the front on another long line. Another ominous looking thundercloud was heading our way and I imagined ancient spectators thanking their towering monument for cover. It was humbling to be taking part in an act that, most likely, has been performed for 2000 years and will surely continue long after I am gone.
I truly recommend to spend an entire day with the Colosseum. See how she looks in the light of the dewy morning then change depending on the weather to a grey or look like sand. But sunset is when she shines her brightest and most hauntingly beautiful. She is gold like the sky and glows like the sun. The cobblestones, when wet, take on her colour as she is bright enough to reflect in your eyes.
It is odd when people complain about the Colosseum being crowded with tourists, students and families. It is as if they think that it should be experienced in quiet and alone. But this was never how the Colosseum was meant to be experienced. It was always a public place of gathering, for various events, bloody and other, but whatever the occasion, it was meant to be experienced in a populated place.
On that note, it is relieving to escape the crowds. I took a seat at one of the overpriced and empty cafes that bombard the edges of the streets parallel to the Colosseum. I sat outside and the rain clouds unleashed upon Rome. Spumante or Champagne is a most suitable choice of drink for you will toast to the life of such an impressive and longstanding living monument. Cheers to her life and to yours! Cheers to the Rome that swept me up and carried me, against my will, to her complexities that lie around every corner.
Thank you for posting in the series! I love the Colosseum as well, and I read an article once that they are in dire need of funding because so many people do not go inside anymore. I think the Roman officials are also starting new projects like concerts and special events there to help save it from shutting down. Crossing our fingers!
Christine
http://ciaochristy.blogspot.com
I have my heart set on heading to Italy in the near future.. I'd love to roam around the Colosseum and snap lots of photos for a day.
Beautiful photos of an iconic monument!
I enjoyed reading your part 2 colosseum 🙂 I was just there in June and the colosseum is absolutely breathtaking 🙂
We just visited the Colosseum for the first time this summer. It was overwhelming, exhausting and inspiring at the same time. Nice post!
Julie
myrovingi.com
I love that you turned a potentially negative experience (the weather, the crowds) into a positive one! bravo!
I haven't been to Rome in about 17 years and now I'm so inspired to return.
Thank you for all your comments!
Diane, it was a little frustrating that it rained for the majority of the time in Rome but it made for some great photos. I am just glad the sun came out at sunset and really showcased the Colosseum.
Hannah, I had not heard of this rumour! So I really can't tell you. I don't think I could have found out anyways with all the noise that people were making and the traffic. P.S I really loved your post about the jewelry and it just inspired me to reflect on where my own comes from!
High Heels and Good Meals – I loved Bouchon! I had contacted Bellagio to do a whole spread on their restaurant, Picasso, in Vecu Magazine and in the end it was a flop. I am just glad that Bouchon was there to pick me up!
DoublClik – Thanks for sharing your blog site with us! I am not following and look forward to the future posts. It feels like an interactive/online magazine.
I really liked your comment about the Colosseum, point well taken!
DoublClik Photo Blog
Amazing. Is it really true that if you whisper on the ground people at the top row can hear you?
Also, loved your story about your jewelry yesterday. I bet they are so special to you!
Awesome! The Colosseum is definitely on my list of places to visit in my lifetime!!!! I can't wait to see your Vegas pics!! Im sooooo glad you liked the Bouchon!
Thanks for stopping by – love to see your photos of Rome 🙂
Great post and wonderful photos. Pity about the weather bust that is one bit of nature we have no say in!! Diane