Rome: The Colosseum and the Forum

We decided to spend our last Christmas in Europe in Rome. We packed SO much into this trip, but how could you not? It's the birthplace of western civilization as we know it! Our first day, the day before Christmas Eve, was spent touring the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, and it was definitely a mind-blowing experience.

The Roman Colosseum needs no introduction, but here are the quick facts. It is the largest amphitheater ever built, its construction was completed in 80 A.D., and it could hold between 50,000 and 80,000 spectators. It was home to dramas, mock battles, executions including many Christians, and of course, gladiator contests. I'm a huge fan of the movie, Gladiator, so don't think for a minute that I wasn't picturing Russell Crowe while walking through this ancient wonder.

Situated between the Colosseum and the Roman Forum is the Arch of Constantine, the most modern of all the triumphal arches built in ancient Rome. The arch was built in 315 A.D. to commemorate the victory of Constantine I the Great in the Battle of Milvian Bridge.

After taking in the Arch of Constantine, we headed toward the Arch of Titus which was built to commemorate Rome's victory over Jerusalem. Once under the arch, the Roman Forum lay sprawled out in front of us. It has been called the most celebrated meeting place in the world and all of history!

As we entered through this arch, my pocket travel-guide extraordinaire, Rick Steves, reminded us to imagine Julius Caesar walking the paths before us 20 centuries prior. With that thought, we were transported into Ancient Rome, into the plaza where Roman senators met, Roman citizens worshiped in various temples, and citizens greeted each other in passing.

Rick literally meant walking the same cobblestone streets that Julius Caesar had walked.

Julius Caesar was the first Roman resident to be deified and honored with a temple after his death. Inside the temple remains are a plaque and altar commemorating Caesar's death.

The Temple of Saturn and the Senate building (Curia Julia) were two of the most memorable structures we saw.

After exploring all the ruins in the forum, we walked to the adjacent Palatine Hill, the most famous of Rome's seven hills. Palatine Hill, considered one of the best neighborhoods in Ancient Rome, was home to aristocrats and emperors. It is also believed to be the location of the cave where Romulus and Remus were found by the she-wolf. Today it is an extensive archaeological site with amazingly well-preserved frescoes.

Leaving the Roman forum and Palatine Hill behind, we made our way to the Capitoline Museums which is another post in itself, but we got such beautiful views of the forum as we walked away.

At one point in our walk through the Capitoline Museums, we came out onto a balcony overlooking the Roman Forum, and the night view was absolutely magical.

None of us will ever forget this day spent immersed in Roman history. There's nothing quite like seeing history come alive right before your very eyes.