The first of a few sets of pictures from a holiday in Rome in early September.

Colosseum and Forum

(L) Exterior view of the Colosseum, the largest amphitheatre in the world. (R) Colosseum on the right, Arch of Constantine on the left.

(L) View of the interior of the Colosseum. (R) View down into the basement area.

The names of some 5th C senators are inscribed in marble blocks – presumably reserved seating.

View from the Palatine Hill, with the unmistakeable Victor Emmanuel monument lurking on the right.

The underground passageway, “cryptoporticus” under the Palatine Hill, and running towards the Forum, thought to have been built by Nero.

The Arch of Titus, built in AD 82 to commemorate the victories of Emperor Titus, including the siege of Jerusalem in AD 70. The panel (R) shows the plundering of goods, including the Temple menorah, from Jerusalem.

Walking up the Via Sacra towards the Capitoline Hill: (L) The enormous basilica of Maxentius and Constantine (AD 308). (R) The temple of Antoninus and Faustina (AD 141).

Views of the Via Sacra from opposite end of the Forum.

Stunning floor tiles in the Palatine Museum.

(L) Part of the Capitoline Museums, with the bronze statue of Emperor Marcus Aurelius in the foreground. (R) The wide steps, or strictly cordonata, down from the piazza. The entire plan was devised by Michelangelo in 1536.

Unknown church!

Rome I