Yet another touristy day

On our third day it's time for the hop on hop off bus. This is probably a far more economic way to see Rome and we set off after breakfast. It's pretty hot despite it being September and the sun continues to beat down,but we brave it and go off to see the colosseum. It's a pile of ruins but with ages of history behind it and as in all of Europe the history coupled with restoration and some very good guides,makes for an interesting event. To think that Christians were killed here while the Romans watched,and then to be told that almost all of the construction material had been taken away to build the basilica in the Vatican seems like sweet revenge. The Roman forum is also a pile of ruins but what remains is beautiful craftsmanship. Marble in all sizes lies around some with beautiful carvings. The old fountains,the gardens and all the buildings have a certain cemetery and to have buildings standing up after thousands of years even if they are in ruins,goes to show how meticulous the eye for detail and good construction was in those days.

Our walk takes us to the village of trastevera far from the touristy places and we are greeted by a real fat little man who is a good advertisement for his restaurant. The food has to be good. He is also one for the ladies as he kisses our hands and hugs almost all of the women there and does a little good natured flirting. Not offensive in any way in fact rated endearing. We meet a Dutch couple on our walk who very kindly pointed us to the right place. Yesterday one of the local ladies insisted I taste her food simply because I asked her what she was eating. A few choice phrases in Italian can make people smile.

We see the trevi fountain but sadly it's under renovation ,though that doesn't stop hundreds of visitors from throwing coins into its dry base. I go inside one of the many churches and am surprised to find many people on their knees praying. In a world that is so ashamed to acknowledge God,the Italians have no  problems with their God. The fragrance of many burning candles gives the whole church a quiet reverence.

We climb the many steps of the Spanish steps and if it wasn't for all the hype built up over the years it's just a lot of steps crowded with tourists.

Our list of places to see are all