Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Our day begins as we board a motorcoach or vans to take us to Piazza del Colosseo, where we will be joined by our local expert who will captivate our imagination as we envision the now-ruined buildings. Our field trip will then proceed to the Colosseum, where intriguing anecdotes about Roman entertainment from centuries past will be shared. Constructed in 80 CE and officially named the Flavian Amphitheater, the Colosseum stood as the grandest structure in the Roman Empire. Spanning an impressive 620 by 513 feet, it had a seating capacity of over 50,000 spectators. The methods employed to create the numerous wonders within its walls continue to mystify architects and researchers today. Throughout history and even in contemporary popular culture, it has become an iconic symbol of gladiatorial combat and the tragic fate endured by countless enslaved people, prisoners of war, condemned criminals, and animals from across the empire. Those with the energy and stamina are welcome to climb the 10-foot-high steps to reach the upper level. Kindly note that we may encounter crowded conditions during our visit.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
We will convene in the hotel's designated meeting room upon our return from the Colosseum and Forum. Here, we will be joined by a local history professor whose expertise will guide us in unraveling the intricate layers of Roman history. This engaging session will be a captivating introduction, setting the stage for our upcoming explorations and deepening our understanding of this remarkable city's past. Rome, known as the Eternal City, has a rich and storied history of over 2,500 years. Founded in 753 BCE, Rome began as a small village and grew into a mighty empire that dominated the Mediterranean world. It witnessed the rise and fall of great civilizations, from the Roman Republic to the Roman Empire, leaving a lasting legacy in governance, engineering, art, and culture. Rome was the center of power and influence, producing iconic figures such as Julius Caesar, Augustus, and Constantine the Great. It witnessed triumphs, conquests, and significant architectural achievements, including the Colosseum, Pantheon, and the expansive network of aqueducts.
Dinner:
On your own to enjoy what you like.
Evening:
Next on our itinerary is one of the most anticipated highlights of our program. We'll be transported by vans or a coach to the Vatican Museums for an exclusive private visit after regular closing hours. This privileged visit will allow us to appreciate select museum collections and the world-renowned Sistine Chapel, recognized as one of humanity's most significant artistic accomplishments. The Sistine Chapel, located within the Vatican City, is one of the most iconic masterpieces of High Renaissance art. Commissioned by Pope Julius II and painted by the renowned artist Michelangelo between 1508 and 1512, its vaulted ceiling showcases a stunning series of frescoes depicting biblical scenes. Among these, the most famous is The Creation of Adam, where God and Adam reach toward each other with outstretched arms. On the altar wall, Michelangelo's The Last Judgment, painted between 1536 and 1541, vividly portrays the Apocalypse. The Sistine Chapel serves as a notable attraction and the site where the Papal Conclave meets to elect new popes, adding to its historical and religious importance. The fascinating tales of Michelangelo's conflicts with Pope Paul III, who commissioned him, have been immortalized in countless books and films. Through his unparalleled skills and resilience, Michelangelo birthed what has been termed a "sanctuary of the theology of the human body." Please note: Our visit is limited to two hours, following a pre-determined path that features the Gallery of Maps, the Hall of Tapestries, and the Stanze di Raffaello (Raphael Rooms) adorned with splendid frescoes. We will return to the hotel by motorcoach at 9:15 p.m. The Vatican Museums consist of 26 sections. If you wish to explore further, consider planning a visit during your free time. Please note that this after-hours visit does not include entry to St. Peter's Basilica.