My time in Rome has proven to be just as enriching, if not more so, than the week we spent in Athens. Initially, our trip started with weariness and high expectations, encountering a wet, dirty, and dark area around our hotel. Though I longed to go back to the roof of Acropolis View Hotel and what was comfortable, discovering the true life and history behind Rome altered my attitude for the better.
The Colosseum served as an excellent starting point to grasp the vastness of the city and the determination of its people. It intrigued me that gladiators, once potentially friends, fought for entertainment in a place designed to unite different groups. I can however see the unity found behind rooting for different groups, such as we experience at the futbol match. Org group had limited knowledge on the spirit or rules of the game, being amidst other people, cheering for a common goal allowed me to feel the most united with Roman citizens.
The Romans, like the Greeks, displayed dedication to performing remarkable feats not for personal glory but for greater causes such as their Gods or leaders. However, a distinction between the Romans and Greeks lies in the dimensions and feelings surrounding their architecture. Greek structures felt more lifelike, reflecting their humility, while Roman architecture consistently made me feel small, emphasizing the dominance of the Empire.
Although architecture has been central to my experiences, seeing St. Peter’s Basilica marked the first time I could connect it to a specific ruler and historical period. The church’s work, especially under Constantine, who initiated the construction of the Basilica, played a crucial role in establishing Christianity as the official religion, fostering stability through faith.
Walking through the doors and attending mass became a testament to the power of faith and our ability to make a lasting impact on generations. Discussing generations, one of my favorite aspects of Italian culture has been family-owned businesses, evident in both a Pasta Class and our visit to a Marble Company. Witnessing their pride in upholding the family name, recounting those who came before and after them, is a quality not often revealed in America.
Overall, Rome has been kind to me, revealing the beauty in vastness and emphasizing the need for pride combined with humility. While I may never fully comprehend the efforts that shaped the “Empire,” I am grateful for the increased knowledge gained each day.
