First Roman Morning

We got a bit of a late start, as we had spent half the night walking around the city.  So, we got right to the sightseeing.  As I mentioned....practically everything worth seeing is within walking distance from Termini.  But, wear good shoes.  Lots of steps, cobblestones and uneven pavement.

The way I see it, there are two ways to do Europe.  The first is with a tour group like this:





20-50 people straining to hear a guide in front who prattles on about historical details,
politics or theology until you can get on with the seeing part of sightseeing.

 

The second is like this:



By now you know which method of tourism I prefer!

First stop, St. Peter-in-Chains (San Pietro in Vincoli):

This church, pictured above with the huge tour group, was built in the fifth century to house the chains that held St. Peter.

These are supposedly the exact chains that held St. Peter.  The early church hid them while Christians were persecuted.  Later when Rome converted they were placed on display.

This church is also famous for Michelangelo's statue, Moses.  It took Michelangelo 30 years to finish.  It's a powerful depiction of Moses, holding the Ten Commandments after coming down from the mountain with his face aglow.

This is a brilliant anecdote for having the Bible fully and correctly translated into one's native language:  Take a look at Moses' head.  Are those horns?!

Centuries ago, the Hebrew word for "rays" was mistranslated "horns." 

While we were at this particular altar, we took the opportunity to pray for the persecuted church.

Remember my chains.
Grace be with you. 
Colossians 4:18

After this, we had brunch.  Pizza and coffee.