Ciaowdy Y'all1
     So today was pretty long, hectic and ridiculous, yet still managed to be one of the best days thus far.  We left the center at 5:50 am (yikes) to catch a bus to catch a train to go to Italy's most famous city, Rome!
     After some breakfast and much needed coffee at the train station, we headed as a large group to check out the Coliseum, which was absolutely mind-blowing.  Though for me, the coolest part was the Texas A&M logo graffitied onto one of the pillars near the exit.  That made for a pretty spectacular group photo.  After the Coliseum, the groups splintered off into several smaller groups and we were left to our own devices.
     My group opted to visit the forum, where we saw a beautiful arch constructed by Jewish slaves after being conquered by the Romans. Next, the groups all made their way to the Vatican separately.  The journey to the Vatican was surprisingly difficult, we had to split up even further and take three separate cabs, some of which managed to cost twice as much as others (yeah, we probably got gypped a little), but we did manage to make it.  The Vatican was amazing.  St. Peter's Basilica was by far the most breathtaking and beautiful church we have seen up to this point, and the obelisk at the center of St. peter's square was equally beautiful.
     After the Vatican, we headed out to the Piazza Navano to meet the rest of the group to go to the Pantheon.  After a short walk, we were greeted by the most incredible example of ancient Roman architecture in the world.  To call it awe-inspiring would be a vast disservice.  The Basilica inside and the huge pillars outside, combined with the sunbeam shining through the ceiling made for an unparalleled experience, and it was my personal favorite thing we have done to this point.
     After reluctantly leaving the Pantheon, we headed to the Trevi Fountain, made famous in The Lizzie McGuire Movie. Everyone threw a coin in to ensure their return to Rome, and we witnessed a couple get engaged in front of the fountain. (awe!)
    Next, the groups were once again left to their own devices. My group headed off to the Capuchin Crypts, the burial place of hundreds of Ancient monks. Though many consider it a macabre monument - it houses six rooms decorated with the bones of the dead- the museum was meant to humble us, to stand as a reminder of the morality of man. The inscribed plaque proclaiming "What you are we used to be, what we are you will be" certainly conveyed that message, although I personally think it could have been delivered in a slightly less creepy fashion. In any case, the décor did manage to be quite beautiful, if a bit gruesome.
    Finally, my group rounded out the trip with the Spanish Steps. Wow. While I'm typically a proponent of flat ground - I didn't realize how strong of a proponent I was until I got here - I was willing to make an exception for these. Though the incline was steep, the view was incredible. We then headed off to the train, stopping only for a well-deserved gelato.
    Though the day was long, and undeniably hot, the view certainly made it worth our while. I know nothing can compare to the real thing, but here's some pictures, since I know that's what all of you family members and friends are looking for!

Kimberly Allen and Reid McCorkle