Submitted by Hoda Bazzi on the 2024 Winter ITAL/LLCU program in Siena, Italy…
My study abroad experience started in Rome. My group was her for a few days before heading to Siena for the majority of our trip. After a long flight and settling into our hotel, we set off to see the city. On our first full day, I saw the Trevi fountain (which is even more beautiful in person). I, of course, had to do the iconic coin toss into the fountain. That same day, we saw the Spanish Steps and got lunch at a local shop. Later in the afternoon, we had our first class exertion, which was to Vatican City. Here, my class went on a guided tour and saw the beauty of the Vatican, including the Sistine Chapel, Basilica of Saint Peter, The Rooms of Raphael, and all of the beautiful art surrounding the city.
The next day, we drove 2 hours to visit the City of Pompeii. Walking around the city and seeing the city ruins was beautifully tragic. Seeing all the history and culture, and yet the devastation and loss that happened to this city is astonishing. This was another guided tour, so we learned a lot about the city’s history, prosperity, traditions, citizens, and what happened the days of the eruption. After returning to the hotel, me and my friends walked around the city exploring the streets on our own.
Our last full day in Rome, we walked as a class to see the Colosseum and Imperial Forum. Walking through ancient Rome was amazing. It was raining that day, but that didn’t stop us from seeing the homes of people who lived there, learning about the city buildings, and seeing the entire city from a high point in ancient rome. After lunch, we decided to walk through the city to find churches to look at. I love looking at historical buildings and painted ceilings and was amazed by all that Rome had to offer. We then went to Terrazza Gianicolo, which is one of the highest points in the city to end our days in Rome. I was so sad to leave Rome, but so excited for what Sienna has to offer. We return to Rome for the last few days of our trip, so it is not goodbye, just see you later (Submitted on January 7, 2024).
