After getting up at 0630 and getting our day started we hopped on the metro and headed to the Colosseum. It was amazing to walk out of the metro and see the Colosseum the very second we exited. Considering we were so early, the area around the structure was not crowded and we were able to enjoy walking around and getting some great pics. As a part of the visit we had prebooked a private tour that allowed us access to the upper and lower levels that have only been open for a total of three months. For anyone coming to Italy, access to these areas are an absolute must. You must pre-book and groups are limited to ten individuals. The tickets can be very hard to get, but very well worth the work. It was interesting hearing about the history of the Colosseum. I was a little distressed at the fact the Pope took all of the marble out of the Colosseum for use in the Vatican. Can I just leave it by saying that is just wrong.
After spending some time inside the Colosseum, we made our way to the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, and The Imperial Forum. To be walking in the same area as Caesar was mind blowing to say the least. Notice one of the pictures is the cremation site of Caesar (the picture with flowers).
Other sites included, the Circus Maximus, Mouth of Truth, Temple of Hercules, and the Pyramid that is part of the old city wall.
Story of the day:
As we were leaving the Imperial Forum a gladiator approached and quickly wanted to know where we were from. Now you know as well as I do, this was in every sense of the word to get us to take pictures. After trying to ignore and get past him, the gladiator had me taking pictures of him with Steven. Steven got pictures of me with him and then he took some pictures of Steven and I together. The entire time I was asking how much is this going to cost us, of which he replied "no worries" in Italian. YEAH right. When he was talking pictures of Steven and I we were ready to run him down and tackle him if he tried to bolt with the camera. So after all was said and done.....he pointed to Steven and then to me and said 5 euro, 5 euro each. Now having already been taken for a ride, and I mean literally, by the driver......I blew a gasket. I proceeded to tell him no way. Now anyone that knows Steven, he was ready to throw up the white flag and surrender as he reached in his pocket for the 10 euros. I went to battle.......telling the guy that was ridiculous and we would pay him one euro and no more. after a little exchange of words we negotiated a peace at 5 euros. Now I must say the pictures were fun and well worth 5 euros.
After the battle, Steven was laughing and saying.....we went to battle with a gladiator. Then he quickly determined I went to battle and he surrendered. However as with many great wars, a truce and therefore peace were negotiated. Pfffffft 10 euros my ass. Forget that.
We finished the day having pasta at the Piazza Navone outside right in front of the Four Rivers Fountain and gelato.
Tomorrow we are off to the Roman baths.
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