Rome via Brooklyn

263 words, 1 minute read time.

Waking up this morning was more than a bit of a challenge. I was still riding the high of Florence, so at least my energy came right back. I’ve already been dreading this day all last week, I do not do well in the sun. With both of my protective coverups in the wash and no umbrella or parasol, I just covered myself in sunscreen and hoped for the best.

Any kind of walking in the sun will sour my mood, so I had an air of misery over me the entire class period. At least the ruins were very cool, I appreciated how well-preserved they were, especially the columns.

All the hills, like the Capitoline, reminded me of Istanbul. I wonder how many times I can reference Turkiye before it gets insanely annoying. I’m sure I’m already at that threshold now, anyway.

My definitive favorite part of the Forum was the Temple of Divus Romulus. I love an ancient temple repurposed into a church (aesthetically speaking, obviously). The little museum inside was also really interesting, I also love a mini museum.

The presentations were also super fun to listen to! I’ve always had an interest in the Vestals, it’s always great to learn more about them. Unfortunately, my body really doesn’t agree with the sun, so I was completely spent after class. I had just enough energy to visit the Jubilee store though, and had an amazing sandwich with salame Milano and scamorza.

I literally never want to look at the sun again.

–Nico Vila