Day 3 - Blessed Be The Day

Another full day of touring among the ancient gods. We had an early tour booked for the Vatican museums. The tour begins with artifacts and antiquities from ancient Eqypt. It would be easy to just stay in this section and study everything but without days and days to keep returning we knew we had to move into the other areas to make it to the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica. Before reaching these, the halls of statues and busts left us flabbergasted. It is hard to imagine the numbers of skilled artists constantly creating these pieces of art.

Vatican Museum

Hall Of Statues

The herding begins when you choose to shortcut to the Sistine Chapel 🐑. Wide halls of people funnel into narrower halls, some still believing they can scoot around the person in front of them 🤦‍♀️. Eventually you are shot into the chapel and ushered to the centre to stand and appreciate. We were thankful to have the audio guide to explain the frescos and their evolution. We cannot even begin to describe the sheer beauty and genius of these greats. Masterpieces even seems to fall short as a descriptor. After the chapel we moved towards the basilica.

Beautiful Frescos

Upon entry, when I was lucky enough not to burn up instantly, we could try to understand the size and scale and beauty of this building. Again, we can’t communicate the scale or intricacies- it truly is something that must been seen!

A's Fate Upon Entering St. Peter's??

Made It Out Safe!!

Following the visit we left Vatican City and joined the thousands and thousands of people enjoying the National holiday. The hop on hop off bus was packed but we patiently waited for our turn while we managed all the people wanting to cut the line- with lots of humour of course! We settled in to take in all the major sites once more. It was relaxing to sit back and go back through all the sites. Erica even got to share her seat with two ladies who decided it was a three seater!

As per the suggestion of three people we headed toward the Jewish Ghetto- the oldest part of the city. It was a busy area bustling with people wanting to enjoy some food and drink for a late lunch. The vibe was authentic and organic, families enjoying the space and each other while consuming delicious meals. As we left the area we popped into a local basilica. A much smaller scale than St. Peter’s but no less ornate or beautiful.

Lunch In The Jewish Ghetto

My Peeps!!

We started our trek towards the Pantheon. Hoards of people dwarfed by this monstrous creation. Again, the sheer size and materials make it difficult to fathom its construction! Truly astounding.

Daytime Pantheon Crowd - Hard Pass!!

Night Pantheon Time Crowd - Much Better!!

After we helped celebrate and support a six-year-old's birthday that was happening the next day by purchasing some elephant bracelets from Africa, we walked to the Spanish steps. Again, insane number of people.

 

Spanish Steps

People watching was thoroughly entertaining. Although it was very warm, we are hoping there is special meaning to drinking directly from the fountains as the risk of consumption of viruses or bacteria seems 100% likely.

A quick rest at the hotel allowed Erica to coax us to Trastevere for a dinner experience - another suggestion by multiple contacts. The neighbourhood did not disappoint. The vibe and atmosphere were welcoming and classic. More delicious food and company. A late stroll back with a quick stop for gelato. We have quickly adjusted to eating dinner at 10pm! We finish our nights with chats to our fans back home!

Foot Bridge Crossing To Trastevere

 

Dinner Spot

Yummy!!!

Tomorrow our other sistas join the crew as we meet in Florence in the morning. Be prepared for the shenanigans to ramp up. Watch out Tuscany we are on our way!!!!

Erica-
High: Footbridge crossing into Trastevere
Low: Smokers

Julie-
High: Sistine Chapel
Low: Smokers

Amanda:
High: The sculptures and frescos
Low: Smokers