Italian Blessings

Our day began with a trip to Vatican City.  Our schedule for the day was packed.  Every moment was perfectly planned.  However, our first stop in Rome’s Metro made time stand still.  Somehow, as we were stepping on the train, Heather managed to fall between the platform and the train trapping one leg between the two.  Andrea screamed!  (I thought Heather had fainted.  But no, she simply fell.)  The miracle is not that she escaped without losing her leg.  Oh no, the true miracle is that her snow, white jeans were not marred in the fall. Thankfully an Italian man on the train pull quickly pulled her to safety just moments before the train doors closed.

Our plan for the Vatican was to view art that celebrates Christian faith specifically from the Renaissance and Baroque periods.  Our expectations were exceeded in every way.  St. Peter’s Basilica is the richest and most impressive Church on earth filled with works by Michelangelo, Bernini and countless other masters of art throughout history.  The Sistene Chapel, just steps away, was awe-inspiring.  It was amazing to learn that the restoration process, that brought Michelangelo’s vibrant colors back to life, was never touched by another artist’s paintbrush.  However, the highlight of our trip was an underground, excavation tour of St. Peter’s Basilica.  We had to book the tickets 3 months in advance in order to be a part of such a special tour.  Our guide shared rich knowledge regarding the ancient, hidden city.  She spoke of Constantine (A.D. 312) and his appreciation for Peter’s sacrifice for the faith.  We were surprised to hear of how Constantine chose to properly burry the body of Peter (over 300 year’s after his crucifixion) by dressing him in garments of gold and purple to symbolize royalty.  We saw monuments that dated back to A.D. 54.  We viewed mosaic creations of worlds gone by and stood in awe at the skill of artistry that has been preserved for 2,000 years.  Most moving was viewing the Christian Graffiti Wall that marked the burial place of St. Peter.

We ended our day with delicious Italian pizza at restaurant that was once a small church.  This was our first meal in which ICE was served with our drinks since our European journey began.  To say we were excited is an understatement.  We spent the evening enjoying the company of friendly locals who walked us to the Trivi Fountain where we tossed coins over our shoulders to insure our return to Rome.