Since the bus was leaving at 9:15 am today, we were all glad to be able to finally get a really good night’s sleep. From the bus, we headed to the Basilica of Saint Paul. This Basilica was built outside the walls that once surrounded Rome. We were told by our tour guide, Maria, that this Basilica was ordered to be built by Emperor Constantine after he allowed religious freedom to Catholics in Rome. When we arrived at the Basilica, we were welcomed to an extraordinary exterior view with a statue of Saint Paul and a stunning mosaic facade. We could even see green parakeets flying overhead! Past the golden holy door was the gorgeous interior. There was something everywhere you looked — alabaster columns, portraits of the Popes, and on the dome, a giant painting of Jesus.
Next we went to Vatican City. We got back on the bus to get to the walls of the Vatican. After going through the metal detectors and getting tickets, it was time for lunch — some pasta and chicken from the museum’s café. But then the real exploration of the Vatican began. It was so interesting and full of so much detail and education. The Sistine Chapel was absolutely stunning. Some notable paintings included the Creation of Adam, as well as various tapestries. The frescos were extraordinary. The Sala dell’Immacolata was such a beautiful room with intricate ceiling designs, as well as the Galleria dei Candelabri! The Vatican museum was fascinating and filled with gifts given to the Popes from all over the world.
We finished the day with dinner of our choosing in Rome and last minute shopping and gelato, the perfect way to end our whirlwind trip to Italy.