Day Three A: Rome (again)

Hooray Rome! What an amazing city. We started the day right today with breakfast in the hotel cafe. More cappuccino? Certainly! One more cup and I am going to transition into another dimension (credit to Kelson Prince for that line).

We then caught the city bus to head to Vatican City.

Off the bus! Do we meet Susanna here or at the Vatican? Well, let's just start walking!

You know that you are getting close when...

We're here!

At Vatican City we met our terrific tour guide Susanna who gave us a terrific introduction to what we were about to see. Thank you Susanna!

Touring Tip: If it is your first time at Vatican City, get a great tour guide such as Susanna.

We headed into Vatican City and started our tour. This is a major centre of cultural and historical importance. We started by meeting just inside the entrance of Vatican City after the security check. Fortunately no incidents while entering!

There are some beautiful replicate and originals of art. Almost looks like one of my student's face when they get their assignment outline!

We started by gathering near the front entrance to view the spiral staircase.

The students were already impressed! (with the Vatican, not with my sneaky photo shots).

Our first view of St. Peter's dome!

Susanna then brought us outside and explained some additional history and background to the Vatican.

"But wait Matt! There can't be more?" you're saying right now. Oh yes there is, and we are just getting warmed up!

We then briefly went inside to transition to another courtyard with a very unique sculpture.

Here, Susanna gave us a great history of the Sistine Chapel. Unfortunately, no photos from inside the Sistine Chapel as they do not permit photography. This in order to assist in preserving this work of art.

Next, into the hall of busts. Wow - that is a lot of busts! But why are some them ugly? The belief was that by representing the true form of the subject, they would be remembered forever.

Here we see Chef Borgo taking a picture of Susanna's brilliance. Honestly, the woman did an absolutely fantastic job of our tour!

And then, onto the Sistine Chapel. Some pictures of the journey.

There is always certain pieces of art which capture your attention. Can't always say why, but some stand out, and since I am the author here you get to be subjected to my whims (bwah ha ha!).

Onto the tour!

(We interrupt this pictorial tour for time for the group to visit the Sistine Chapel)

Move on to Rome Day Three B!