The official start of the next Road Scholar Tour - Program #18206 - Italian Classics: Rome, Florence, Venice is - Saturday, Nov. 2 through Friday, Nov. 15. In our few “extra” days we added, can explore Rome on our own with no timetable to meet.
#18206 Overview
Experience the beauty of three historic capitals of Classical, Medieval and Renaissance as local experts lead you on a journey through some of Italy’s greatest cities. Follow the path of legendary artists, scientists and philosophers from the classical remnants of Rome to the preserved treasures of Florence and Venice.
Highlights
• Trace Roman history through the ages as we visit the Colosseum, the Pantheon, Borghese & Vatican Museums.
• Journey to Florence and Venice via a high speed EuroStar train, reaching speeds of over 120 mph.
• View the Michelangelo’s David — a Renaissance period masterpiece in Florence.
• Ride in a gondola through the canals of Venice, after visiting the Doge’s Palace in St. Mark’s Square.
Before we follow the schedule set for us, will focus on a few special places in Rome that are either not covered at all, or, in enough detail to suit my, oops, “our” interests. (-:
Stop #1 is the Palazzo Massimo – The National Roman Museum or Palazzo Massimo alle Terme
During my research, prior to coming to Rome, found this online: This nineteenth-century palace in Neo-Renaissance style, close to the Termini Train Station, houses one of the world's most important collections of Classical art. On the four floors of the museum, sculptures, frescoes and mosaics, coins and jewels document the evolution of the Roman artistic culture from the late Republican age through Late Antiquity (2nd c. BCE - 5th c. CE) along an exhibition path in which Ancient Roman history, myths and everyday life live anew.
After seeing so many websites listing this as a “must see.” decided – why not start here, since it is just around the corner from Hotel Diana? Seven hours later – at closing time – agreed – a MUST see. (-:
http://archeoroma.beniculturali.it/en/museums/national-roman-museum-palazzo-massimo-alle-terme
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Museum_of_Rome
We found that with our 10 Euro entry fee, it was good for 3 other locations and could be used over a 3 day period. Great idea, but... so much more yet to “sample.”
Of the over thousands of items we viewed, the The Boxer At Rest, a larger than life-size statue is an item of focus. The hands had a wrapping of leather, with metal parts, to inflict maximum injury. The blows could only be to the head area, not the body. As I closely studied the entire statue, could see the scars of many prior boxing events. The Boxer seems to look me directly in the eyes when viewing him from his right side. His lips are pursed as almost saying – “You talkin’ to me?” Sort of like Robert De Niro in the 1973 movie – Taxi Driver.
http://www.revealedrome.com/2011/03/rome-best-archaeological-museum-palazzo-massimo-termini.html
http://www.metmuseum.org/about-the-museum/now-at-the-met/features/2013/the-boxer
The second from the top of my list is: The Frescoes from the Villa of Livia. The room makes you feel like you are outdoors at what might be the best time of the year. Flowers are blooming. Trees have fruit. Birds are on the wing. Bugs are buzzing. You can almost hear them if you listen closely.
http://guideofrome.blogspot.com/2013/01/colors-from-past.html
I am adding a variety of internet links to give a chance to experience, even of only online, how others have interpreted their visit. This link, just above, was interesting from the perspective of who did it and why? A Rome tour guide. The places she covers are some we will visit. Of course, many we did not have enough time to see - for now (-:
So whether you have gone to Rome, or may never have the chance, but do have the interest – this site is helpful. “If” you go far enough through the older posts, will find reference to the “female pope.” Was there “only” one? What does “The DaVinci Code” reveal? Another story – fact or fiction?
http://guideofrome.blogspot.com/
Whew. Let me call this the “end of the day.” For me, I have to “distill” the 1,800 photos I took today to the 20 or so I will add to the album link below. Hope you are enjoying my view of the adventure. Better yet, let's celebrate Carol's birthday and Halloween. Was surprised to find many shops in both Malta, and now Rome, that are displaying Halloween items, just like in the USA.
Photo 1. The Boxer
Photo 2. What more can I say?
Photo 3. “You talkin’ to me?” (-:
Click below for today's online photo album.
https://picasaweb.google.com/magwheel44/2013C2CDay13of28
