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Early evening stroll

Went out for a wee walk.  First stop Santa Maria Maggiore.  A bit disconcerting to find 4 or 5 young military men in camouflage wielding machine guns.  Did they know something I didn't?

Went to the corner of the four fountains (NOT depicted here) and saw them newly cleaned.

Went to Piazza Barberini.

Went to Santa Maria della Vittoria but Bernini's masterpiece is under restoration.  Consoled myself with a LARGE 3 scoop gelato.  Experienced no guilt at all.  Can recommend pineapple, lemon, chocolate hazelnut with whipped cream on top.

Tommorow I move to join my group although the day is still mine to do with as I choose.

Don't forget to click on the pictures for greatest viewing pleasure.

Glorious day in glorious Rome...

...with glorious weather too.

Returned to St. Peter's Bascilica today.  I was there last year but with my tour group and got separated in huge crowds, panicked.  Today much nicer.

Also climbed the dome which I hadn't done since 1981.  Given my knees and advanced age this could be the last time.

Went to Trastevere area for the first time.  Visited the Bascilica Di Santa Maria in Trastevere.  Simply incredible.

Life is good.

Hope your day was as lovely as mine.

Remember to click on the pictures to make them full screen.

:-)

A bit of today...

The Teatro di Marcello, the inspiration for the Colosseum, with later additions on top.  That addition on top is currently a residence.  Also it's currently on the market.  Asking price?  32 million.  Any takers?

Also visited the Valley of the Acquaducts.  This shot I took 'blind' because of glare of light.  Still, it will give you a sense of how incredible they were/are.

Also went to the ancient ruins under the Palazzo Valintini, with hologram and 3D effects.  Also saw a show in this attraction that took us through the scenes of Trajan's Column.  All so very, so very, so very COOL!

Wandering Rome

Visited old favorites and a few new things.  Apart from grabbing a quick bite, I am truly done for today.

Hope your day was as good as mine.

:-)

Safely in Rome!

I just got to my hotel about 20 minutes ago.  Lovely smooth trip if an hour delayed.

I intend to freshen up a bit and then go for a stroll.  Temps here today - 30.  A bit cooler tomorrow.

Cute Single room, here for 3 nights before joining tour.

Tomorrow starting my vacation - back to Italy but this time to (almost) all new places.  With the exception of Rome and a quick one day excursion to Florence, each and every place brand new to me!

Keep posted for a few updates.  

Just finishing up packing - given this is a senior's tour - all luggage is handled.  SO, taking a fair bit.  Probably won't wear it all but I'll have choice!