May 16
Hi everyone (or should I say ciao?)! This is my blog to document my study abroad trip to Italy with PLC 61! I am feeling so incredibly fortunate to be given this opportunity and learn so much along the way! Today we landed in Rome and got to our hotel and got to eat some lunch! We walked around the city and visited Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore. This is one of the most beautiful religious sites I have ever been to. I found myself in such awe of the architecture and art in the Basilica. The attention to detail and biblical illustrations were so beautiful. I could have stayed there for hours and stared at all of the details. One thing I loved most, was how it wasn’t just a “museum” of art, but was still a place of worship for many. As we walked around, we were able to hear mass go on. I learned that there are dress codes for religious sites and that your shoulders and knees should be covered in respect. Some people in our group who did not meet the dress code were not able to enter the tour- which is something that is not common in America. After the Basilica, we walked around the city and got to see where everything was. The neighborhoods are so beautiful and full of color and life. I loved how the buildings were all different but fit together! We ended off with pizza by our hotel- which was delicious! Overall it was a great first day in Rome!
My expectations for the trip is to be emerged in the beautiful history and art here in Italy. There is so much culture and different backgrounds here that I can’t wait to learn more about. After going to the Basilica today, I have already learned more about Catholicism then what I knew before this trip- and I am excited to learn even more as we continue to visit religious sites. Can’t wait to see more!
