We also saw the Sistine Chapel (twice thanks to the museum being incredibly difficult to navigate when certain rooms are closed). This was my second (and third) time being in the Sistine Chapel and it never got old. I am amazed by the work in that chapel. I love the details and the bright colors that Michelangelo chose to use on the ceiling.
I especially love the well known middle scene of the ceiling. I love the strength in God's finger and the nonchalance in Adam's. I love that the cloth surrounding God takes the shape of a brain showing his supreme knowledge. And I love that God is portrayed as a man just like Adam.
After the Vatican Museum, we made our way over to St. Peter's.
St. Peter's houses another one of my favorite artworks from Michelangelo, the Pieta.This sculpture shows the broken body of Christ held by Mary after His crucifixion.
After we explored the enormous cathedral, we went to find the Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain. I never knew why the Spanish Steps were famous, I just knew they were and that they were a definite must see. Turns out they are the longest and widest stairs in Europe. When we were there they were setting up for some Christmas concert which meant poinsettias everywhere. It was gorgeous.
After the steps we made our way over to the Trevi Fountain which we thoroughly enjoyed despite the rain. We all took turns throwing coins into the fountain because the story is that if you do so, you will come back one day. It worked for me ( and will again).
I believe we also finished this night up with more gelato before heading to Switzerland. So, we drove to Switzerland, which was really fun since there was a blizzard, and even more fun since they don't really clear the roads there like we do here. Anyway, we finally made it to Zermatt, this darling ski town in the Alps. Denise and Jason went snowboarding and got up close and personal with the Matterhorn. I, not being a skier or a snowboarder, opted to explore the town, browse the shops, buy a book, and drink hot chocolate.
I still got to see the Matterhorn, just not quite as up close...It's that insanely tall peak in the background...
After Switzerland we drove back to Milan where we boarded a plane back to London. The adventures there are coming next.
Little known fact: "The School of Athens" is the first known appearance of Waldo; did you spot him? Also, great pics. I love Rome. It's awesome that there are still monuments left after 2,000 of that geat culture. I hope, but doubt, that there will be monuments left to our waning culture after 2,000. It looks like you are going to catch the coin that you are throwing into the Trevi Fountain in your mouth, BTW. I don't think that the legend works if the coin doesn't make it to the water. Great Pieta picture; did you take it? It's gorgeous. Also, I am glad you did not die on the Matterhorn. I think that the only time I will be on the Matterhorn will be at Disney Land. And then only if Julee holds my hand. I am a wuss.
ReplyDeleteA. I did not find Waldo, you might have to point him out for me.
ReplyDeleteB. I did realize after I threw that coin how high and not as far back I threw it- but I did make it into the fountain.
C. I did take the picture of the Pieta- thank you- I love that sculpture!
D. I bet Julee would hold your hand. She told me she likes you.