Well, nothing funny really happened on the way to the Roman Forum. It is just the name of the old movie with Phil Silvers seemed to be partially relevant today. Basically, today we walked the short distance from the Roman Colosseum to the Forum.
The Colosseum is known to be perhaps the next biggest attraction in Rome to the Vatican. It is one of the most popular attractions in the world.
The appeal of this amazing structure is not so much its beauty but the fascinating history and the architectural ingenuity.
Construction of this massive amphitheatre started in 70 AD and was largely finished just 10 years later. It was built from concrete and stone. Just looking at what remains of this structure one is stunned by its complexity and detail. Nothing seemed to have been spared.
There was a complete ellipsis including the arena, seating galleries on three levels, with special places for the Emperor, vestal virgins and spectators.
There were complex underground accommodation for gladiators and animals. There were human powered elevators and even a system to bring in water to fill the arena for naval games. Of course, the gladiators, workers and builders were all slaves.
The Colosseum was destroyed by earthquakes and stone robbers. Early emperors also stripped it off all its precious materials to recycle it for use in the Basilica and other church buildings.
What was left was a faint representation of the original masterpiece. In recent years, huge reconstruction work has been taking place to make it usable for public events. Recent Popes have used it on Good Friday for a procession of the stations of the cross.
Here are some images that will show what parts of the Colosseum looked like.
Next to the Colosseum are the remains of the Roman Forum. Unlike the Colosseum, which was used for competition and games, the Forum was the site for public debate, discussion and decision-making.
The former Forum is now a vast empty space with bits and pieces of the old structure. This included the remains of a building where Julius Caesar was burned. People still bring flowers to that spot.
Nearby also is the Palatine Hill where myth has it that Romulus started the Roman Empire. This is the centre most of the Seven Hills of Rome. It also included a garden with statues of the vestal virgins.
These are some images of the Forum and the Palantine Hill.
There is much more to show and report on from Rome, but given limited time and space, we have shared enough to give an overview. Clearly this is a place where we need to spend several weeks.
Arrivederci Roma!
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