Submitted by Matthew Marsilii on the 2020 winter session study abroad program in Italy sponsored by the Department of English…
The Roman Forum possesses a multitude of ruins dating back to the age of the Roman Republic. What is now a collection of fallen stone and half constructed buildings, was once the heart of the most powerful empire in the world. Every rock you touch in the valley located in-between the seven hills of Rome is a remnant of this age. It’s a maze of white marble and eroded bricks that catch the eye at every turn. Built near the top of the Palatine Hill, is the spot where Rome itself was founded by King Romulus. Now, the ruins of the emperor’s palace still remain standing. Once home to the likes of Augustus and Nero, this palace is still an impressive sight to see. Near the palace, one can see the remains of the intricately crafted aqueducts that pumped thousands of gallons of water into ancient Rome. Now, their arches are covered in moss and vines, but the bricks still look unchanged. Even though only the outline of ancient buildings remains here in the Forum, standing in its center makes it easy to imagine what once was. Now, a modern city has grown up around it all. The sound of honking horns and busy pedestrians beat past everything. Yet, it is careful not to trample over the past. Above all, the Colosseum towers over everything. Peeking above the modern buildings and eclipsing the busy city streets. It is a reminder of what this city was and still is.
