After a long flight from Miami, we finally arrived in Rome! We spent our first night in Europe in our hotel room ordering room service. Our hotel (Movenpick Central Park) was actually just steps away from the Pope's hospital where he was staying at that time. We were hoping we'd catch a glimpse of the Pope, but going to the Vatican was the next best thing.
We went to the Vatican the next morning and visited St. Peter's Basilica. Being that we're Catholics, the Vatican was an absolute stop for us. San Pietro is the largest church in all of Christendom, and is a truly magnificent building. We saw Michaelagelo's Pieta, Bernini's famous canopy, and numerous altars at the Basilica. In our head we were picturing the book "Angels and Demons".
We went back to Rome and headed to the Colosseum. Legend says that spectators saw persecuted Christians killed by lions, although there is no evidence of this. Standing here, you find yourself wishing these walls could talk. What a story they must have.
After leaving Rome, we drove to Venice. I personally had been so anxious to see Venice. It's a city built on the water. There are no cars or bicycles. You must walk or go by water to your destination. I've always wanted to ride the gondola and we were able to get the serenade since we were on our honeymoon. Two Italian men sang for us, or should I say I was actually singing along with them. "Volare... cantare". It was so peaceful without the usual roar of traffic in the background and you do feel you’re in a different world. They said it is good luck to kiss under each of the bridges, however we were too busy taking pictures of the amazing view. We can't ask for more. We've been lucky so far.
The next day we explored the Piazza of San Marco. It's the famous square with the pigeons. We visited a glass blowing company. Venetian glass has been famous all over the world for many years and it is fascinating to watch the glass pieces being made by these professionals. Matthew and I stopped for gelato and sat in a quiet piazza to enjoy it. Venice is definitely my favorite city in Europe!
More honeymoon pictures can be found at our online photo album.
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