June 23rd: Field Study

For art history, we went on another field study (we will be going on these once or twice a week) to the Basilica San Giovanni in Laterano. It is really interesting to me to learn about all of these historical places and how they became what they are today. You never realize how much restoration and reconstruction has been put into these buildings and even how much beauty has been lost over the years. Even though these buildings are still astounding to see, I wish I could have witnessed them in their "prime" with all the bronze adornments and even more opulence. So many structures have been reused and transported to make other structures. It is absolutely crazy to me! And, seriously, I am just amazed at how the Romans transported this huge obelisks and stairs, etc from Egypt (or other places) to Rome. I don't get it! I can't even lift 12 pound weights!! Here is a picture of Lizzie and I in front of this obelisk which is the highest obelisk in all of Rome! How cool!! And we always look so small in comparison to these buildings..

But, the basilica was a huge, baroque inspired building: very highly decorated with golden leaf, cosmati floors, a huge alter, etc. This basilica was the first Christian basilica ever created so it is very important for Rome! Here is a picture of the building itself and some of the inside of the building. Hopefully you will be able to see most of it from here, but if not, check facebook for more if you're curious.

We also went to see the Scala Santa which are the Holy Stairs. People have to walk up the stairs on their knees in order to reach the top for atonement of their sins. It was cool to see but definitely not something I could see myself participating in.

We went to grab some lunch after wards but, seriously, I am getting so sick of the "non-variety" of Italian food. I never thought I would say that but, I am! I really need me some steak and fast! I am definitely excited for that when I get home! :) Every restaurant is a Pizzeria, Gelateria, Panini stand or a Ristorante that serves pizza, pasta, and paninis! HAHA. There isn't even variety in the types of paninis! You are offered: tomato mozzarella, salami mozzarella, tuna and mozzarella, etc. I might have to stop getting paninis soon, even though they are so good! Maybe I'll just make gelato a meal of its own!! :) I also had to make dinner for myself tonight and, of course, it was pasta. That's basically the only thing I know how to make from the grocery store. Sadly, that is still true. And their pasta aisle at the store is out-of-control huge. I swear, it's all they eat! It tasted fine, simple and plain, but I'm certain that I could find much better in a top-knotch authentic Italian restaurant! I'm gonna have to get out more!!

I had an Italian quiz today, too, and I think it went well! I know that I don't have to really "try" in my classes here, but it's impossible not to! Giuila makes it impossible to NOT participate and NOT learn Italian! Art history is kind of another story since Pier's accent is so thick I sometimes miss some information. He is a great professor though, I really like him and am enjoying his class. I just need to pass so, hopefully, I do enough to do just that! (I know you're all thinking that, obviously, I'm going to pass. I'm JUST saying!) ;)

Parlarle presto!