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Rome, Italy - For the Young
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Rome For The Young
Of all the cities of the world, Rome holds more interest for most young folks
than any other. We've found little difference between Rome for the young and
Rome for adults. There's so much to enjoy in Rome.
Here's what our youngsters found most appealing from several visits:
-St. Peter's Basilica
Many churches will bore many people, but few are likely to be bored by this
spectacular church. The interior is overwhelming in size and glowing
decoration. As well, there's the rooftop, the view of the
interior from the inside of the drum of the dome and the elation from
ascending the inside of the dome to the lantern atop the church with the
stunning view of the Vatican Gardens and the city skyline. Skip the
elevator ride back down from the roof and count the number of steps in the
staircases. And don't forget the grottoes beneath the floor of the church
with the Papal tombs.
-Roman Forum and Palatine
The heart of the city for a thousand years with enough remains to conjure
images of emperors, Anthony's oration at Caesar's funeral, Vestal Virgins
and rumbling chariots. Snapshots taken of each other while standing behind
headless statues of the Vestals are mandatory. Recommended for everyone: a
romantic bird'seye view of the Forum in the dark from atop the Capitoline
Hill at the Southeast corner at the rear of the Palazzo Senatoro.
-Vatican Museums
Overwelmingly large for most, even the easily bored enjoy a quick visit
covering the highlights, especially the outrageously gorgeous frescos of the
Sistine Chapel.
You could spend days visiting the museums, but you can 'do' the highlights in
less
than an hour. (Do be prepared to stand in line to gain entry, though.)
-Italian Food
As good a reason to enjoy Rome as any of the sights. Pasta, pizza and (alas)
the world's second largest MacDonald's.
-Colosseum
A spectacular eyeful. If you know any Roman history (factual or fictional)
colorful images of staged naval battles, battered gladiators and ferocious
wild beasts springing from their cages will leap to mind.
-Castel San Angelo (Hadrian's Tomb)
An Imperial Roman tomb; medieval fortress; the Archangel Michael sheathing
his sword signaling end of the plague; a Papal refuge from war. Fifteen
hundred
years of active history in one place.
-Santa Maria delle Concezione
The home church of the Capuchin monks at the foot of the via Veneto. Running
out of space in the cellar to bury further monks, some creative soul devised
the idea of a series of chapels decorated with the bones of predecessors.
Fascinating rather than gruesome.
-Ostia Antica
The port city of ancient Rome at the mouth of the Tiber. Unoccupied for over
1500 years, its preservation gives a far better idea of the look of an
ancient Roman city than Rome itself. Only a half hour trip from the center
of Rome, and providing the opportunity to experience the Rome subway
(Metropolitana) and an Italian train. Pompeii is somewhat better preserved,
but a *very* long day trip for youngsters (or oldsters.)
-Museum of Roman Civilization (Museo Civilata Romana)
Located at EUR, this museum will fascinate most with displays of Roman
weapons, armor and engineering. Most appealing, and worth the short subway
ride by itself, the 'plastico', a huge scale model of Rome as it appeared in
the second century, viewed from a balcony on the floor above. You'll
identify many existing streets and monuments and buildings. Much has changed
in nearly 2,000 years, yet much is the same.
-Catacombs
Either eerily creepy or fascinating (or both) for most.
-Buses and Subways
Unless you live in a large city, riding the city's buses and subways is
likely to be fun for most.
-Trevi Fountain
Not the best fountain artistically, but quite dramatic, and the opportunity
to toss in a coin assuring a return to the Eternal City.
One note: viewing Rome is complex. The city is not conveniently divided into
ancient, medieval, renaissance and modern areas; layers rest on layers, and
buildings separated by millennia sit side-by-side. A little (enjoyable)
study beforehand pays big dividends. There are several quite
excellent books about the city's history though they may be heavy reading for
some. Parts of Rick Steves' readable "Europe 101" provide a good background
for a visit to Rome. "Mona Winks" sketches 'tours' of several sites in Rome
including the Vatican Museums and Roman Forum/Palatine; useful as pre-visit
preparation as well as while you're strolling.
You'll find articles on visiting Rome, and Rome hotels and restaurants in
AOL's Travel Library, or I can supply updated versions by E-mail.
edgehrmkc@aol.com