Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Aged Places

During my time in Rome I have begun to realize just how young my homeland, America, is. When America was founded, Italy had been in existence for over 2600 years. The Romans had conquered most of the known world before America was even a passing fantasy in the British man's mind. This notion was reinforced by a visit to the Colosseum.
This imposing structure has stood for almost 1900 years. Built to entertain the masses with gladiator fights and mock battles, its presence spoke of the majesty of imperial Rome. Walking in I could feel the strength of the place. When I entered I walked under the shadow of massive stone arches. It felt almost like a very old PNC Park without the baseball and more lions.

When I walked into the center of the Colosseum, I saw the towering stands for spectators and the large field for combat. How many criminals were sent there to pay for their crimes at the jaws of a famished lions? How many gladiators gained their glory at the demise of their opponent in that place? Yet many of the early Christians, though, lost their lives their because of their unwavering faith. Living in a society free of persecution, I pray that I can stand strong for God even in the jaws of death.


After I left the Colosseum, I went to see the Capatoline Hill, which is where the emperors held residence. Compared to the Colosseum, it was a tranquil area. The ruins lay scattered about soft grass and beautiful flowers. It was interesting but nothing in particular stuck out to me.
Overall, I enjoyed my experiences at the Colosseum and the Capatoline Hill. Well I am off to the Pantheon tomorrow. Bouna Notte!

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