Buon giorno a Roma!

Tuesday, 13 May

After two long, but smooth flights, we landed in Rome around 8:30 a.m. today. And so did our luggage, which is always a relief!

An adventurous (read: harrowing) taxi ride with a cell-phone chatting and texting driver on l’autostrada brought us to our hotel. We’ve determined there are probably few traffic laws, let alone courtesies (blinkers, anyone?), in Italy. Driving is fast and furious, with few traffic signals, no crosswalk signals, and tiny cars and larger motorcycles clogging the narrow streets and parking helter-skelter. If you can’t parallel park, just back in with your rear against the curb!

We were able to check in early, and got in a nap before venturing out for a walk. Our first food purchase was gelato, of course! Two scoops of cioccolato and tiramisu. 

Our first basilica visit was to Santa Maria Maggiore, just a few blocks away. One of the five major basilicas, it is the largest Catholic Marian church in Rome. The core building erected in the 5th century is still present, and the nave’s coffered ceiling was built during the Renaissance. Fifth century mosaics depicting the life of Christ and Mary are the highlight here. Unfortunately, the height and dim light (no flashes) precludes photographing them from the floor. 

First time we had seen a confessional in use! They line the nave, with the priests’ languages noted on the exterior.

Just a few photos today. Millions more to come! 

Try double-clicking to enlarge the photos.