Bill and I scouted the area South of our place took find a spot for dinner near Santa Maria Trastevere. Then we walked across the river to see the nearest spot for the “hop on hop off” buses. On our way back we picked up breakfast supplies for the crew, fed them, and sent them off to the bus with instructions to meet us at the Colosseum. Bill and I rested for a bit, then walked along the river to meet them. We arrived early, headed up the hill and ordered a drink while we waited. We met Palma on time, but everyone else was missing. The bus had been stuck and traffic, so we walked down and met them at the stop.

After taking some photos Palma led us to the entrance that had an elevator so that we could go to the second floor more easily.

After taking in the view she found us a spot to sit down so she could share the history with us. It was amazing to hear about the number people that attended, various shows including wild animals, gladiators and hangings, trap doors, the underground, and seating for noble, wealthy, men and women. Palma explained that it was built by 100,000 people over 8 years.

We went down to the first floor for more of a tour, different views, and more photos. Palma explained after the fall of the Romans the Colosseum was “recycled” and harvested of the marble and other materials for other buildings in the city. It was used for housing, a church and other purposes over the remaining centuries. It had been blessed by a Pope and considered a holy place where Christians perished.

From there we walked across to the Roman Forum. Palma explained the history of the arch when we walked by. At the top of the stairs when we entered she talked about the arch dedicated to a brother, by the brother that killed him.

Sat under the trees - Bill was feeling “attacked” and I was wrongly accused Vestual Virgins - very powerful We parted ways

We walked back toward our place for an early dinner. Bill and I stuck to appetizers and Aperol Spritz. We dropped everyone back at the room and socialized for a bit before we continued our tour. Bill found an Eater spot, al Moro, near the Trevi Fountain.

We were seated in the back. Bill ordered a charcuterie platter and mozzarella which was really good. My menu was Italian, so I asked the waiter for recommendations which was a thin beef with tomatoes that was really good. Bill had veal meatballs with the most amazing mashed potatoes (with nutmeg?). The sly waiter brought over a cheesecake with tiny fresh wild berries that we could not refuse, so we also indulged in a glass of grappa and a huge serving of scotch.

He was even kind enough to give me a beautiful long stemmed white rose out of one of the vases (thanks to my sweet hubby).

We walked by Trevi Fountain which is so pretty at night, then headed back to the room after midnight. It had been the best day I had ever had in Rome.

Step count: 26,909

Unbelievable Ancient Rome