via Roma

I live on via Roma (Rome Street), so every time I goto write this blog I start out with via Roma, even though it isn't quite what I mean to be explaining. I figured you guys would allow me that liberty. So two Saturday's ago we went on a field-trip to Rome, I know, that in and of itself is amazing to say, a field-trip to Rome. However, because it was a class trip we weren't really able to run around everywhere. 

One of our first stops was at San Luigi dei Francesi, a beautiful church in Rome. We were stopping here because of the Caravaggio's that adorn one of the chapels there. Here they both are, the top one is The Martyrdom of Saint Matthew, and the bottom one is The Calling of Saint Matthew together they are The Inspiration of Saint Matthew. Obviously they are both much more impressive in person, but I thought you might appreciate it anyways.

I found the following angels to be quite interesting. If you look closely you can see that they are actually holding the balcony area up. I thought that was a nice touch. 

Next we went on to the Pantheon. I had missed this the last time I was in Rome, so I was very excited to see it (especially after seeing Angels and Demons). I cannot believe that I missed this the last time I was in Rome. Let me start with stating that this is by far one of the most amazing buildings I have ever entered. 

Once you walk into the building you are amazed by the enormity of the space. Here is a view of the dome with the famous hole at the very top.

However, my favorite part was this stray dog that wandered in. He was this adorably scruffy little dog and he simply walked in and relaxed on the floor. Once the security saw him this older man (below, in the blue shirt) tried to shoo him away (yes, I was "that" tourist taking pictures of all of this). What I loved the most is that when the security guy went to get reinforcements (he refused to touch the dog) the dog got up and proceeded to walk around the entire building as if he was a human visitor. When he got to the end and the police guy showed up he simply walked out of the building. I swear he must have been a person stuck in a dog's body, it was hilarious.

After the excitement of the Parthenon we all went on our own for lunch, then met at the Borghese Gallery for some more art fun! :-) No cameras allowed inside there, but here is a picture of us lounging outside (from left to right: Kate, Lindsey, Me, and Harasyn).

That's all for now! Ciao!