Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Day 30: Our last full day in Rome....
Today was an emotional roller coaster ride....It started off with a wake up call around 11am. Thanks to the feast of Peter and Paul...the Vatican was crazy and Pizza Colonna was closed. I'm not sure what was a bigger let down. However, the triumvirate pushed on and decided to do their Vatican shopping..too bad the shops were closed. Fantastic. We figured since we were at St. Peter's, we would check out the JP II exhibition...........wow............words can not describe this exhibit. Starting from birth to death, we were taken through every major event in JP II's life. Displayed: the bowl he ate from as a child in poland, his scapular he wore in his early formation as a priest, his vestments of all pastoral positions, and the videos of his assassination attempt and his final Angelus address. An exhibit which takes all of two minutes to walk end to end in...took an hour. And we didn't even read everything completely....
We left the exhibit, and saw that the line to get into the basilica has drastically gone down. So, we decided to see St. Peter's one last time. We walked into the basilica, and three beams of light shined down onto the Bernini altar...we paid our homage to the tomb of JP II and did our own individual prayer around the basilica. As we were leaving, we all feel light come behind us. We turn around, the entire front altar of St. Peter's is illuminated, and the organ blares. Every vertebrate, every vein, every nerve inside me cringed in the beauty.
Concluding this day: A great family dinner...and pow-wow in St. Peter's Square to conclude the trip. After our group hug, we hear a pop-pop coming from where Castel San't Angelo is. Next the we see....fireworks illuminating the sky in multiple colors. Perfection
We left the exhibit, and saw that the line to get into the basilica has drastically gone down. So, we decided to see St. Peter's one last time. We walked into the basilica, and three beams of light shined down onto the Bernini altar...we paid our homage to the tomb of JP II and did our own individual prayer around the basilica. As we were leaving, we all feel light come behind us. We turn around, the entire front altar of St. Peter's is illuminated, and the organ blares. Every vertebrate, every vein, every nerve inside me cringed in the beauty.
Concluding this day: A great family dinner...and pow-wow in St. Peter's Square to conclude the trip. After our group hug, we hear a pop-pop coming from where Castel San't Angelo is. Next the we see....fireworks illuminating the sky in multiple colors. Perfection
Days 27-29: Florence
Ohhh Firenze......First, thank you Trenitalia for going on strike......Real cool....However, thank you kind bus service for taking us from Siena to Florence. Also, thank you Katie for your fearless attitude when taking us to Hotel Pendini. I would have given your GPS skills a 9.7 (.3 deduction for Ipad usage) if it wasn't for the confidence on that final turn. You're welcome for the save :) However I still give you a 9.6.
I'll give the staff a 10 for the hotel selection and more specifically the room selection for the males. Te penthouse was very much appreciated. From our jacuzzi sized bath tub I could tell anyone what the line was like for the carousel and if the music from the piazza was any good. Who needs a concierge, when you have room 316?
Okay, back to Florence itself. I absolutely loved the city of Florence. It was a perfect blend of small town feel, but also a big city hustle and bustle. There are some points there which one can tell is just booming the economy, and other places that allow one to sit back and enjoy nature.
Now that I expressed my view of Florence itself, Connection time!
1. In the Duomo of Florence (which is somewhat of a let down) there were a couple interesting sarcophagi. The sarcophagi pirctured below looks somewhat like others we have seen before except for the sculpture of the person buried. According to this sculpture, this guy really didn't sleep too much. Rather, he sat in his La-Z-Boy watching the latest episode of Desperate Housewives, Glee, or a favorite John Wayne flick....and nodded off from time to time.
2. The Basilica of Santa Croce was home to a small museum of sorts. In this museum were many medieval crucifixes. Remember that one time I predicted seeing a more "developed" evil eye amulet on christ? Well, my prophesy came true. I'll take any arguments against this thesis, but pictured here is the dead Jesus with the shadow/outline of a phallus from his upper to lower abdomen. A symbol that even in death, evil will still attempt to attack Jesus. Also, that even in death, Jesus will defeat evil.
Does this mean that I get my own book in the Old Testament?
I'll give the staff a 10 for the hotel selection and more specifically the room selection for the males. Te penthouse was very much appreciated. From our jacuzzi sized bath tub I could tell anyone what the line was like for the carousel and if the music from the piazza was any good. Who needs a concierge, when you have room 316?
Okay, back to Florence itself. I absolutely loved the city of Florence. It was a perfect blend of small town feel, but also a big city hustle and bustle. There are some points there which one can tell is just booming the economy, and other places that allow one to sit back and enjoy nature.
Now that I expressed my view of Florence itself, Connection time!
1. In the Duomo of Florence (which is somewhat of a let down) there were a couple interesting sarcophagi. The sarcophagi pirctured below looks somewhat like others we have seen before except for the sculpture of the person buried. According to this sculpture, this guy really didn't sleep too much. Rather, he sat in his La-Z-Boy watching the latest episode of Desperate Housewives, Glee, or a favorite John Wayne flick....and nodded off from time to time.
Does this mean that I get my own book in the Old Testament?
Days 25-26: Siena
Happy Birthday to me. It's not Bourbon Street, but I'll say that Piazza del Campo will do.
Also, in the baptistry attached to the Duomo, stood this very interesting depiction of Jesus. I have spoken before of the medieval depictions of Jesus' suffering. The most suffering Jesus went through was when he was chained at the pillar for his scourging (scourging almost to death). This is the first time I have ever seen a statue of Jesus chained at the pillar.
Finally, in the picture below, we see a modern interpretation of Mark 11: 15-19. Yes...this is a chapel which is has been converted into a store......wow.
Connection: On the floor of the Siena Duomo were many different depictions of what looked to be Greek gods an goddesses. Mixed into these were depictions of the reign of Herod. Pictured below is Herod's killing of the innocent. As the story goes, Herod learned of a Jewish baby born in his kingdom which will throw him out of power, so he ordered the murder of all Jewish children in hopes that he will eliminate the threat to his reign.
Also, in the baptistry attached to the Duomo, stood this very interesting depiction of Jesus. I have spoken before of the medieval depictions of Jesus' suffering. The most suffering Jesus went through was when he was chained at the pillar for his scourging (scourging almost to death). This is the first time I have ever seen a statue of Jesus chained at the pillar.
Finally, in the picture below, we see a modern interpretation of Mark 11: 15-19. Yes...this is a chapel which is has been converted into a store......wow.
Day 24: Assisi
Assisi, with no doubt in my mind, was my favorite place in Italy and is in very close running to be my favorite place in the world. In some places, beauty is found in the people, sometimes found in the landscape, sometimes found in the culture, or sometimes a combination of all these. Assisi falls into that final category. Our first experience in Assisi was accompanied by two little Italian nuns. We asked them a simple question, do you know where Hotel Giotto is? Well, one pointed one way..the other pointed the opposite way. Quickly, they went back and forth in competitive banter attempting to convince the other of the direction of the hotel and the insure the other of her stupidity. Ready.....1...2..3...awwwwwww
Approaching Hotel Giotto, we looked out to see a never-ending valley of crop fields and plains...enough said.
Thirdly, the culture. Assisi is a medieval town that it literally stuck in time. It is said that Pompeii is stuck in time, but there is only so much positivity you can attribute to a 2,000 year old city. However, Assisi is stuck in time due to their preservation of their medieval buildings and medieval lifestyle. Okay, the whole medieval lifestyle thing is a stretch. There aren't knights in shining armor slaying evil forces away from damsels in distress, but a guy can dream about it every once in a while.
Oh, yeah..connections! Well, at Basilica di San Francesco......St. Francis of Assisi's Franciscan Headquarters.....there was a small museum of artifacts/art pieces obtained by the Franciscans through the years. In the far back corner in a rear facing painting, wee see "Madonna Con Bambino" a medieval painting of Mary and Jesus. Nothing too interesting about this painting when speaking of Mary's proxemics to Jesus. However, when we look closely at Jesus, he is wearing a sort of evil eye amulet. Did the medieval culture believe that not even Jesus was free from obtaining the evil eye? Or since a common transmission of the evil eye was through jealousy of babies, Mary knew that she had something special with her, so she put the evil eye amulet on him? Now, as we head to Siena, where more medieval art lies. Allusions to Jesus and the evil eye may pop up. Maybe the amulets will develop as Jesus' age develops. As a baby, Jesus merely has an allusion to a bull horn...which is an allusion to a phallus. There has got to be a more developed amulet out there.
Approaching Hotel Giotto, we looked out to see a never-ending valley of crop fields and plains...enough said.
Thirdly, the culture. Assisi is a medieval town that it literally stuck in time. It is said that Pompeii is stuck in time, but there is only so much positivity you can attribute to a 2,000 year old city. However, Assisi is stuck in time due to their preservation of their medieval buildings and medieval lifestyle. Okay, the whole medieval lifestyle thing is a stretch. There aren't knights in shining armor slaying evil forces away from damsels in distress, but a guy can dream about it every once in a while.
Oh, yeah..connections! Well, at Basilica di San Francesco......St. Francis of Assisi's Franciscan Headquarters.....there was a small museum of artifacts/art pieces obtained by the Franciscans through the years. In the far back corner in a rear facing painting, wee see "Madonna Con Bambino" a medieval painting of Mary and Jesus. Nothing too interesting about this painting when speaking of Mary's proxemics to Jesus. However, when we look closely at Jesus, he is wearing a sort of evil eye amulet. Did the medieval culture believe that not even Jesus was free from obtaining the evil eye? Or since a common transmission of the evil eye was through jealousy of babies, Mary knew that she had something special with her, so she put the evil eye amulet on him? Now, as we head to Siena, where more medieval art lies. Allusions to Jesus and the evil eye may pop up. Maybe the amulets will develop as Jesus' age develops. As a baby, Jesus merely has an allusion to a bull horn...which is an allusion to a phallus. There has got to be a more developed amulet out there.
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Day 23: What Up Benny, What Up Peter? Sounds like a Papal Party!
Sooo today was spent just about all at the Vatican. Being a part of the Papal audience was a really really cool experience. Having the ability to say Pope Benedict XVI was XVI feet away from me is unspeakably amazing.
Observations about Benny...I wonder what horse he picked in the Kentucky Derby. His hat makes me wonder if Animal Kingdom was given a little special blessing by the head of the Catholic kingdom on earth ....Hmmmmm.
Also, there is no way that his shoes can stay that red. Seriously, I swear there are smurfs shining them 24/7...
___
Moving on though, if I was not blessed with the ability to participate in a papal audience, the highlight of my day would have been the excavations under St. Peter's. To make things simple, i'll just number some quick bullet points about the scavi.
1. There are actually three separate altars built on the grounds where the current altar stands. It is told that if one drops a rock from the direct center of the cupola, the rock would pass through the center of all three altars and land on the somewhat 'undisclosed' main attraction' of St. Peter's Basilica.
2. This main attraction is the resting place of our church founder and first pope, St. Peter himself. All evidence has led for archaeologists to come to the conclusion that Peter is in fact buried in that place. On the graffiti wall in front of the current resting place of his bones, many inscriptions are written in reference to Peter, but not actually naming him. However, it was found that one inscription names Peter. names him so much that it says that this place is the resting place of the apostle Peter. Specifically it says: Petros eni..."Peter is here"
3. The mausoleums in the scavi truly made what we saw in Ostia Antica and Pompeii come alive. Literally, a city of the dead covers the entire area underneath St. Peter's Basilica and Square. each mausoleum that has been excavated is a home for the dead, and some even have stairs for their souls to walk up and down for a little exercise and for their family to do maintenance work on the mausoleum. Thankfully, Constantine had a little respect for pagans, and merely took the top off of the mausoleums. The dirt and soil Constantine filled the necropolis with completely sealed the necropolis from the elements. Thus, near perfect preservations.
4. Also, a interesting find about the Necropolis is that in the 3rd Century, it seems as if a Christian mausoleum was built. Inside the mausoleum, we see Christ on the ceiling depicted as the Sun god Helios (remembering that Christians were persecuted for expressing their fait directly until Constantine came into power). Also, there seems as though there is a fisherman as well alluding to the "fishermen of souls and men" Jesus appointed his apostles to be.
See this link for more information about the necropolis. Thank you to Michelle Rau for sending this to me while I was writing this blog. Note, she had no clue that I was writing this specific blog when she sent it to me:
http://www.vatican.va/various/basiliche/necropoli/scavi_english.html
An amazing day at St. Peter's Square, under St. Peter's Square, and in the presence of St. Peter himself.
Observations about Benny...I wonder what horse he picked in the Kentucky Derby. His hat makes me wonder if Animal Kingdom was given a little special blessing by the head of the Catholic kingdom on earth ....Hmmmmm.
Also, there is no way that his shoes can stay that red. Seriously, I swear there are smurfs shining them 24/7...
___
Moving on though, if I was not blessed with the ability to participate in a papal audience, the highlight of my day would have been the excavations under St. Peter's. To make things simple, i'll just number some quick bullet points about the scavi.
1. There are actually three separate altars built on the grounds where the current altar stands. It is told that if one drops a rock from the direct center of the cupola, the rock would pass through the center of all three altars and land on the somewhat 'undisclosed' main attraction' of St. Peter's Basilica.
2. This main attraction is the resting place of our church founder and first pope, St. Peter himself. All evidence has led for archaeologists to come to the conclusion that Peter is in fact buried in that place. On the graffiti wall in front of the current resting place of his bones, many inscriptions are written in reference to Peter, but not actually naming him. However, it was found that one inscription names Peter. names him so much that it says that this place is the resting place of the apostle Peter. Specifically it says: Petros eni..."Peter is here"
3. The mausoleums in the scavi truly made what we saw in Ostia Antica and Pompeii come alive. Literally, a city of the dead covers the entire area underneath St. Peter's Basilica and Square. each mausoleum that has been excavated is a home for the dead, and some even have stairs for their souls to walk up and down for a little exercise and for their family to do maintenance work on the mausoleum. Thankfully, Constantine had a little respect for pagans, and merely took the top off of the mausoleums. The dirt and soil Constantine filled the necropolis with completely sealed the necropolis from the elements. Thus, near perfect preservations.
4. Also, a interesting find about the Necropolis is that in the 3rd Century, it seems as if a Christian mausoleum was built. Inside the mausoleum, we see Christ on the ceiling depicted as the Sun god Helios (remembering that Christians were persecuted for expressing their fait directly until Constantine came into power). Also, there seems as though there is a fisherman as well alluding to the "fishermen of souls and men" Jesus appointed his apostles to be.
See this link for more information about the necropolis. Thank you to Michelle Rau for sending this to me while I was writing this blog. Note, she had no clue that I was writing this specific blog when she sent it to me:
http://www.vatican.va/various/basiliche/necropoli/scavi_english.html
An amazing day at St. Peter's Square, under St. Peter's Square, and in the presence of St. Peter himself.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Day 22: Etruscan Museum
Soo today was very much so a recovery day and some much needed "me" time. The Etruscan Museum was quite overwhelming. I took Greek Mythology before, but the whole making connections thing was just not working at all. It would have been quite helpful to have a classicist on this excursion to point out the mythological scenes represented on the pottery. Nevertheless, I did fine one piece as striking. Again...no photos here....but I'll try to explain the piece as best as possible.
On entering the museum, the display case in the southwest far corner upon entering is a display of small pots. The small pots, most likely used for oil, could be dated to approximately 2nd Century. In this small display, one pot had an etched cross on the side. Nothing elaborate in any way, just a hand etched cross. The whole time from then on out in the museum, I was looking for christian symbols. I could not find any on any piece dated from pre-medieval times. I make the claim that this pot was either recycled from family to family or this pot was used in a family that was converted to christianity. Other than that....I've got nothing......Apologies.
On entering the museum, the display case in the southwest far corner upon entering is a display of small pots. The small pots, most likely used for oil, could be dated to approximately 2nd Century. In this small display, one pot had an etched cross on the side. Nothing elaborate in any way, just a hand etched cross. The whole time from then on out in the museum, I was looking for christian symbols. I could not find any on any piece dated from pre-medieval times. I make the claim that this pot was either recycled from family to family or this pot was used in a family that was converted to christianity. Other than that....I've got nothing......Apologies.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Day 21: Orvieto
For starters, thank you Dr. Bednarz for wanting to not go to Orvieto alone and taking myself, Chris, and Michelle along for the day trip. It's amazing how timing works out sometimes
Short and sweet: Orvieto was my first experience in small town/countryside Italia. It really get me amped up for Assisi....a couple observations jumped out.
1. The obnoxiously beautiful Basilica di Orvieto. Michelle pointed out that it looked like a prison, but in our learnings of prisons, that would be an awfully incorrect statement.
2. In Ostia Antica, Dr. Bednarz pointed out a "home" in the necropolis and references John 14: 2 ,"In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you." She referenced the "columbarium" as a place used to store urns filled with the ashes of the deceased. Those urns are placed in square niches in the columbarium, which were modeled in the same fashion as pigeon niches. The same style pigeon niches found in the "Underground Orvieto" tour. Those pigeons would be used as food...pretty much a never ending supply of food for the etruscans living in early Orvieto. The light in the upper right hand corner is where the pigeons would fly in and out of during the day.
3. Death Spectacles and Medieval Crucifixion:
Here are a couple photos (they're not that well snapped, because of a no photo policy).
The "death spectacles" were common acts in antiquity. It involves humiliating a criminal in front of a large group of people. One example: a criminal being hung from the top of the coliseum and told to flap his arms like wings or else he will fall 200 feet to his death. However, the most humiliating in an honor-shame society would be mocked as a king. The kings would be seen as divine and sent by the gods, and one proclaiming to be a god who is not (in the eyes of his or her persecutors) would be the most humiliating of all because it eternally loses honor for someone. Here is Jesus' death spectacle; mockery as a king.
Short and sweet: Orvieto was my first experience in small town/countryside Italia. It really get me amped up for Assisi....a couple observations jumped out.
1. The obnoxiously beautiful Basilica di Orvieto. Michelle pointed out that it looked like a prison, but in our learnings of prisons, that would be an awfully incorrect statement.
3. Death Spectacles and Medieval Crucifixion:
Here are a couple photos (they're not that well snapped, because of a no photo policy).
The "death spectacles" were common acts in antiquity. It involves humiliating a criminal in front of a large group of people. One example: a criminal being hung from the top of the coliseum and told to flap his arms like wings or else he will fall 200 feet to his death. However, the most humiliating in an honor-shame society would be mocked as a king. The kings would be seen as divine and sent by the gods, and one proclaiming to be a god who is not (in the eyes of his or her persecutors) would be the most humiliating of all because it eternally loses honor for someone. Here is Jesus' death spectacle; mockery as a king.
Here is another Medieval crucifixion: So realistic (minus the fact that he is completely covered), so detailed with each popping vein.... quite gory with paint tones showing blood covering his body.
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Day 20: "Hey guys...that was beautifully painful."
Well, the day started with all the intention of going with Dr. Bednarz at 9:00am to checkout a 2,000 year old prison said to be where St. Peter was imprisoned....Chris and I woke up at 9:05am. Fantastic...
However, our plans were flexible. Chris, Michelle, and I headed off to the Capitoline Hill Museum. Actually, that was the plan until on the Metro we realized that it was Sunday. Plan C: Find a church, then go to Capitoline. The next stop after this revelation was Repubblica, home of Santa Maria degli Angel e dei Martiri. Michelle has not been in this particular basilica, and it is without a doubt a great sight as I have talked about in a previous post.
As we approached the doors of the basilica, we saw multiple carabinieri officers outside and wondered what was possibly going on inside. To our surprise, nothing. Only a couple early birds there at 10:05am for a 10:30am mass, and the common tourist snapping pictures of every tile he or she steps on. But when 10:30 came around, we wondered why there were still groupings of what seemed to be upper class italians in dresses and suits sitting in the section of nice chairs near the altar rail...again, to our surprise, we find out that the mass was a celebration of 450 years since the founding of the basilica. Mass did not start until 11:00am, and finished up around 12:30pm, and was in all italian. Thus: "beautifully painful" and vice versa. Oh, and we got these little post card things which were pretty nice.
Allow me to say this about the mass though. Whoever is instructing the servers on the techniques of incensing...is not up to par. He had no slack on the chain, no click for dramatics, and no puffs of smoke to say the least. Abrupt movements left and right. You would think that by building a basilica over the Diocletian Baths that maybe, just maybe there would be a some secret passageway to get from one side of the altar to the other rather than having to non-discreetly walk a half mile from one side to the other. Just a thought, call in Indiana Jones for a little excavation work and a new underground tunnel.
So, after two and a half hours in church. We finally headed to Capitoline. Time for some connections
1. There were tons and tuns of busts, overwhelmingly amount actually. However, I was able to spot an element of my "expertise" on the armor of Hadrian. Pictured, you will see on Hadrian's chest, the head of Medusa. Medusa, Queen of the Amazons, was seen as a "shocking" figure. It's main purpose was to ward off evil from the soldiers fighting and bring good fortune to those whose chest she lies on.
2. Another depiction of Hadrian was rather odd. There is a section of the museum with statues of Roman rulers depicted with the attributes of the Roman gods. Before going an further, see the photo below:
However, our plans were flexible. Chris, Michelle, and I headed off to the Capitoline Hill Museum. Actually, that was the plan until on the Metro we realized that it was Sunday. Plan C: Find a church, then go to Capitoline. The next stop after this revelation was Repubblica, home of Santa Maria degli Angel e dei Martiri. Michelle has not been in this particular basilica, and it is without a doubt a great sight as I have talked about in a previous post.
As we approached the doors of the basilica, we saw multiple carabinieri officers outside and wondered what was possibly going on inside. To our surprise, nothing. Only a couple early birds there at 10:05am for a 10:30am mass, and the common tourist snapping pictures of every tile he or she steps on. But when 10:30 came around, we wondered why there were still groupings of what seemed to be upper class italians in dresses and suits sitting in the section of nice chairs near the altar rail...again, to our surprise, we find out that the mass was a celebration of 450 years since the founding of the basilica. Mass did not start until 11:00am, and finished up around 12:30pm, and was in all italian. Thus: "beautifully painful" and vice versa. Oh, and we got these little post card things which were pretty nice.
Allow me to say this about the mass though. Whoever is instructing the servers on the techniques of incensing...is not up to par. He had no slack on the chain, no click for dramatics, and no puffs of smoke to say the least. Abrupt movements left and right. You would think that by building a basilica over the Diocletian Baths that maybe, just maybe there would be a some secret passageway to get from one side of the altar to the other rather than having to non-discreetly walk a half mile from one side to the other. Just a thought, call in Indiana Jones for a little excavation work and a new underground tunnel.
1. There were tons and tuns of busts, overwhelmingly amount actually. However, I was able to spot an element of my "expertise" on the armor of Hadrian. Pictured, you will see on Hadrian's chest, the head of Medusa. Medusa, Queen of the Amazons, was seen as a "shocking" figure. It's main purpose was to ward off evil from the soldiers fighting and bring good fortune to those whose chest she lies on.
In some research, the only god I could come across that Hadrian would come across as would be Diana. A female god? Maybe this sculptor did not like Hadrian's political stylings, or maybe this sculptor is not portraying Hadrian as Diana. It is known that Hadrian was a triumphant leader of sorts, and thanks to our modern day depictions of Jesus, we see Jesus riding into Jerusalem triumphantly on an ass with a veil. (thanks Hollywood). Whether it is true or not that Jesus rode in with a veil himself, this statue is very interesting from that perspective. Hadrian was part of the persecution period, but it is said that he pitied Christians for than Jews. Thus, his persecution of Jews made the Christian population grow larger, not by design, but just by chance and by result of Jewish persecution. Hadrian represented as a triumphant leader/Jesus?
3... Oh there's good ol' Judith again
4. Okay, so where's "St. Paul's Outside the Walls"?
Saturday, June 18, 2011
Day 19: Goodnight!
Okay blog readers....this day was very much a rest day for everyone. However, I was not cooped up in four walls all day. I figured it would be a great day to head over to Castel San't Angelo. I have three observations about the items in the castle. First, the guards were watching over everyone like hawks when it comes to the photos of artifacts in the museum.. I was able to snap one photo of an observation:
1. We first saw these jugs at our mini tour of the aqueduct system. Dr. Bednarz explained to us how the bottoms of the jugs (used for oils and wine) were pointed so that they could be placed into the sand. Well, there was not any sand in the castle, so Hadrian had these nice little stands made and niches carved out into the wall to display his oils and wines. I'd say that' s a pretty modern day practice as well. if one walks into a just about any home, there are more than likely to be a bottle of wine out in the kitchen for decorative purpose or for storage. Possibly to give some sense of "high class" to visitors. Okay, this whole theory is a stretch. But I still thought this stand was pretty cool.
2. The castle, like most castles, were built as a fortress to protect from invaders. besides sloped walls and archer holes, the best defense strategy I saw was a complete 360 degree inclined walk-way into the main area of the castle. Say an invading army were to make it into the castle, they would have to make their way around this rotunda for sacking purposes. Thus, allowing more time for those inside to either find safety or gather together to stop a militia from entering. Ohhh those Romans and their defense mechanisms.
3. A very interesting thing about the museum was that pieces of the museum were actually stolen at some point in time by Italian police forces in what they proudly called "lightning raids." One piece was a trifold medieval christian piece. In the center was mother and child, and on the sides of the piece were events from the Passion. A striking image on this piece was of the actual crucifixion itself. I have noticed that in medieval times, they were not afraid to show the reality of events. We give a lot of credit to later painters such as Caravaggio for their ability to show reality in facial expression, but the medieval artists really were able to capture reality in the actual event itself. What do I mean? I mean that in this particular depiction, Jesus' wounds were graphically spilling out blood in each of the five major wounds. Also, Jesus' tunic was present, but was so transparent that it took a few seconds to actually realize that he was covered. Striking.
I'll try to get back over there to snap a photo of this particular piece. Since just about all of these were seized one of a kind works by unknown artists, photos are not online. That's a whole other rant I could make about museum security, but I digress......
2. The castle, like most castles, were built as a fortress to protect from invaders. besides sloped walls and archer holes, the best defense strategy I saw was a complete 360 degree inclined walk-way into the main area of the castle. Say an invading army were to make it into the castle, they would have to make their way around this rotunda for sacking purposes. Thus, allowing more time for those inside to either find safety or gather together to stop a militia from entering. Ohhh those Romans and their defense mechanisms.
3. A very interesting thing about the museum was that pieces of the museum were actually stolen at some point in time by Italian police forces in what they proudly called "lightning raids." One piece was a trifold medieval christian piece. In the center was mother and child, and on the sides of the piece were events from the Passion. A striking image on this piece was of the actual crucifixion itself. I have noticed that in medieval times, they were not afraid to show the reality of events. We give a lot of credit to later painters such as Caravaggio for their ability to show reality in facial expression, but the medieval artists really were able to capture reality in the actual event itself. What do I mean? I mean that in this particular depiction, Jesus' wounds were graphically spilling out blood in each of the five major wounds. Also, Jesus' tunic was present, but was so transparent that it took a few seconds to actually realize that he was covered. Striking.
I'll try to get back over there to snap a photo of this particular piece. Since just about all of these were seized one of a kind works by unknown artists, photos are not online. That's a whole other rant I could make about museum security, but I digress......
Days 16-18: Ohh Napoli
Okay......everyone has written their own opinions of the incident in Napoli. I have done a fair share of reflecting on this instance, so here we go......
NOBODY and I repeat NOBODY is to blame for what happened in Napoli. From the second we got off the train, there is NOTHING that could have stopped any sort of occurrence in Napoli. Not even getting lost five times. If people want to complain about our leadership's ability to logistically get things right, then how about he or she who decides to do the complaining, take the lead.
1. When we were trying to figure out where the hell the hotel was, I'm not sure if anyone caught this, but there were barely any street names for the area the hotel was even in! Therefore, Ipad/Google maps couldn't do shit.
2. When we were stuck wandering for an hour or so trying to figure out where the Pompeii archaeologist was, that was simply an issue of the archaeologist changing locations of where she wanted to meet us and not giving us sufficient directions to where her new location was. Our translator, you know, the one who actually speaks the language of the locals, was being sent in conflicting directions by the locals.
3. When we were trying to find that pizza place..... Sometimes even when you know where you're going, you get lost. Example....why hasn't gotten lost on the 3rd or 4th Floor of Bobet?
4. Now, the incident after Capri......THAT COULD HAVE HAPPENED TO ANYONE.....EVEN IF THE PROFESSORS WERE WITH US!! We were all obvious Americans/tourists. Hence, major targets.
Now, lets talk about Pompeii.
One could imagine our beloved Paul walking into towns such as Pompeii and seeing sights like these when he entered to town center. One could also imagine Paul walking down these streets of homes. Where his communities would have gathered.
Next, we have an example of what an antiquity fast food restaurant would have been like. Those holes in the cement were home to pots of soup. And like today's culture, one could either take away or dine-in. The gold-ish light in the rear is where the sitting area was.
NOBODY and I repeat NOBODY is to blame for what happened in Napoli. From the second we got off the train, there is NOTHING that could have stopped any sort of occurrence in Napoli. Not even getting lost five times. If people want to complain about our leadership's ability to logistically get things right, then how about he or she who decides to do the complaining, take the lead.
1. When we were trying to figure out where the hell the hotel was, I'm not sure if anyone caught this, but there were barely any street names for the area the hotel was even in! Therefore, Ipad/Google maps couldn't do shit.
2. When we were stuck wandering for an hour or so trying to figure out where the Pompeii archaeologist was, that was simply an issue of the archaeologist changing locations of where she wanted to meet us and not giving us sufficient directions to where her new location was. Our translator, you know, the one who actually speaks the language of the locals, was being sent in conflicting directions by the locals.
3. When we were trying to find that pizza place..... Sometimes even when you know where you're going, you get lost. Example....why hasn't gotten lost on the 3rd or 4th Floor of Bobet?
4. Now, the incident after Capri......THAT COULD HAVE HAPPENED TO ANYONE.....EVEN IF THE PROFESSORS WERE WITH US!! We were all obvious Americans/tourists. Hence, major targets.
Now, lets talk about Pompeii.
Next, we have an example of what an antiquity fast food restaurant would have been like. Those holes in the cement were home to pots of soup. And like today's culture, one could either take away or dine-in. The gold-ish light in the rear is where the sitting area was.
Directly above is an example of a painted-on lararium. Recap: lararium is what housed a mini statue of a lare, or a household god. The protectors of the household gods are two snakes. Protection from what exactly? If you guessed evil or the evil eye, they that would be correct.
_______
I usually don't like this "in conclusion" business, but..In conclusion, Napoli can't be avoided, because it how someone goes to Pompeii. It is also home to one of the best archaeological museums in the world.
The events that happened can't be avoided completely. There are no shark suits made to ward off "criminals." I would suggest everyone have chest plates or shields with a Medusa head, but that would be illogical and a packing nightmare.
Therefore....final words....shit happens, then we move on. I am thankful that nobody was traumatically injured physically, and I am thankful that we were able to get through the remainder of the trip without any issue.
_____
Day 15: Ostia Antica...the next Call of Duty map
It feels so good to get out of Rome for the first time. Ostia Antica is still technically in Rome, but it was great to leave the hustle and bustle of city life for peace and tranquility.
To understand the photo below, reference John 14:2. In the mind of the Johannine audience, this is the scene they would image from a necropolis. Each of the niches would house an urn filled with the ashes of the deceased ancestors. (one of two methods of burial, the other being exhumation in a sarcophagus). This style is called a columbarium, which originates from the housing of pigeons. Wow, I really wish that one day I can see these pigeon houses to really appreciate this part of the necropolis. (apocalyptic literature reference, see Day 21 blog)
In the photo below, I give my explanation as to why modern day folk have such weak ankles. Seriously....these things were difficult to navigate. The amount of crevices my feet just happened to find was mind blowing..Uh oh...Michelle just fell. Call the ambulanza.
Also....final observation for Ostia....don't climb on the ruins of a synogogue or else the archaeologist will swiftly instruct one to quit acting as Rafki....Nants ingonyama bagithi Baba!
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Day 14: Have we seriously been here for two weeks?..
The time really has flown by thus far. My two week report: sensory overload and exhaustion....except for Pizza Colonna, home of the 2 euro pizza. As long as their elysian connections of dough and topping still exist for 2-4 euros, then that sense will never be exhausted.
I'll explain this masterful Monday in the same way I explained yesterday, in "three." Specifically, three churches.
1. Basilica San Clemente: Chris and I embarked on our first solo mission, free of professors, in hopes that we would be able to make our own connections. Thankfully, we started at San Clemente near the Colosseum, which is a church rich in history. In the first century, the original church has been proved to be a site of mithraic worship and education. The Cult of Mithra was a rival to christianity in the first century. In the 8th Century, a basilica was built on top of the old mithraeum. Then, in the 12th Century, the current basilica was built. The current basilica is heavy in pagan icons relating to christian figures in its mosaics and other forms of art. For example, in the photos below, we see a line of lambs and a center lamb with a halo ..Halo Jesus, how are you doing?..Other pagan depictions are the deer as Artemis. Also, in the far left corner of the right photo, we see an eagle with a halo (John). I was told to stop taking pictures, so I was not able to show the animal representations of the synoptics, but each of the synoptic writers in animal for with a halo.
2. Parrocchia San Eugenio: My first confession experience in Rome. It was a pretty awkward experience. No laminated sign on the confessional saying "English", but I saw that there was a priest. Figured, why not? It was a fun experience. He opened with something in Italian and I was like "inglese?" The priest chuckled and said "Ohh I'll try my best in a heavy Italian accent." But, as I said before. God has no boundaries.
3. Santi Giovanni e Paolo: First....Can I please have an explanation as to why the laws of physics much work perfectly in my disfavor. Somewhere along the line I must have upset Saints John and Paul, as they sent a small message from the posterior of a pigeon and onto my head. This, right after I removed my cap in reverence of the holy ground I was walking on. Keepin' it real J & P, much love.........
But in getting over this trauma, Chris and I journeyed to the scavi underneath Giovanni e Paolo. We begain to make as many connections as possible. We were able to point out which rooms were and were not living quarters, and which rooms were specifically the rooms for worship of sorts. However, one set of paintings were particularly striking. Supposedly, the scavi is dated to 3rd Century. The set of paintings are particularly interesting because they portray biblical scenes: the crucifixion of Jesus and the separating of his garments at a table. As in John 19:23-24, "Then the soldiers, when they had crucified Jesus, took his garments, and made four parts, to every soldier a part; and also his coat: now the coat was without seam, woven from the top throughout. They said therefore among themselves, Let us not rend it, but cast lots for it, whose it shall be: that the scripture might be fulfilled." Again, I was asked to not take photos after this shot, but we see Jesus' crucifixion in the left hand corner. he is clothed modestly in what looks to be some sort of dyed tunic. At the table, according to archaeologists and scholars, is the dividing of Jesus' garments while he is on the cross and Mary at his feet. It seems that the earlier we go in Jesus' crucifixion depictions, the more clothing he has and the less torn he himself looks. Potentially a way to restore his honor and not to horribly remind his followers what happened to him.
I'll explain this masterful Monday in the same way I explained yesterday, in "three." Specifically, three churches.
1. Basilica San Clemente: Chris and I embarked on our first solo mission, free of professors, in hopes that we would be able to make our own connections. Thankfully, we started at San Clemente near the Colosseum, which is a church rich in history. In the first century, the original church has been proved to be a site of mithraic worship and education. The Cult of Mithra was a rival to christianity in the first century. In the 8th Century, a basilica was built on top of the old mithraeum. Then, in the 12th Century, the current basilica was built. The current basilica is heavy in pagan icons relating to christian figures in its mosaics and other forms of art. For example, in the photos below, we see a line of lambs and a center lamb with a halo ..Halo Jesus, how are you doing?..Other pagan depictions are the deer as Artemis. Also, in the far left corner of the right photo, we see an eagle with a halo (John). I was told to stop taking pictures, so I was not able to show the animal representations of the synoptics, but each of the synoptic writers in animal for with a halo.
2. Parrocchia San Eugenio: My first confession experience in Rome. It was a pretty awkward experience. No laminated sign on the confessional saying "English", but I saw that there was a priest. Figured, why not? It was a fun experience. He opened with something in Italian and I was like "inglese?" The priest chuckled and said "Ohh I'll try my best in a heavy Italian accent." But, as I said before. God has no boundaries.
3. Santi Giovanni e Paolo: First....Can I please have an explanation as to why the laws of physics much work perfectly in my disfavor. Somewhere along the line I must have upset Saints John and Paul, as they sent a small message from the posterior of a pigeon and onto my head. This, right after I removed my cap in reverence of the holy ground I was walking on. Keepin' it real J & P, much love.........
But in getting over this trauma, Chris and I journeyed to the scavi underneath Giovanni e Paolo. We begain to make as many connections as possible. We were able to point out which rooms were and were not living quarters, and which rooms were specifically the rooms for worship of sorts. However, one set of paintings were particularly striking. Supposedly, the scavi is dated to 3rd Century. The set of paintings are particularly interesting because they portray biblical scenes: the crucifixion of Jesus and the separating of his garments at a table. As in John 19:23-24, "Then the soldiers, when they had crucified Jesus, took his garments, and made four parts, to every soldier a part; and also his coat: now the coat was without seam, woven from the top throughout. They said therefore among themselves, Let us not rend it, but cast lots for it, whose it shall be: that the scripture might be fulfilled." Again, I was asked to not take photos after this shot, but we see Jesus' crucifixion in the left hand corner. he is clothed modestly in what looks to be some sort of dyed tunic. At the table, according to archaeologists and scholars, is the dividing of Jesus' garments while he is on the cross and Mary at his feet. It seems that the earlier we go in Jesus' crucifixion depictions, the more clothing he has and the less torn he himself looks. Potentially a way to restore his honor and not to horribly remind his followers what happened to him.
Day 13: Sunday Sunday
For today is Sunday...the day of the Sabbath. A day of rest and of refection in the name of God....unnnnless you're on a study abroad trip. However, I'll never trade today's experience for a day of rest...I think the best way to highlight the day would be to break it up into three activities.
1. Santa Maria sopra Minerva (Basilica of St. Mary Above Minerva): No, this church is not saying that Mary is above Minerva..although she is...this basilica is built upon a Roman era temple to Minerva. Cool. Moving on....This place of worship contains three major pieces: the body of St. Catherine of Siena, the reconstruction of Catherine's study area, and Michaelangelo's "Cristo della Minerva." The body and the reconstructed study was quite moving, and that's all I'll say to avoid fluff. However, I was very struck by "Cristo della Minerva" or "Christ the Redeemer " (pictured below).
1. Santa Maria sopra Minerva (Basilica of St. Mary Above Minerva): No, this church is not saying that Mary is above Minerva..although she is...this basilica is built upon a Roman era temple to Minerva. Cool. Moving on....This place of worship contains three major pieces: the body of St. Catherine of Siena, the reconstruction of Catherine's study area, and Michaelangelo's "Cristo della Minerva." The body and the reconstructed study was quite moving, and that's all I'll say to avoid fluff. However, I was very struck by "Cristo della Minerva" or "Christ the Redeemer " (pictured below).
I spoke once before about crucifixion depictions in relation to actual relevance to the crucifixion process. Michaelangelo finished this piece in 1521, so roughly three years to complete. We see that christ in positioned in the contrapasso, showing his relaxed and confident nature (also in Michaelangelo's "David"). However, I would like to focus on the cloth placed around Christ's right thigh. This is actually a late addition the the piece during the baroque period after Michaelangelo's death. The original work was correct in its crucifixion depiction with christ completely exposed to the elements in the nude.....ohh baroque.
2. The St. Ignatius rooms: ...humbling...nerve racking...shaking...mind blowing....St. Ignatius of Loyola, who shared the same desire I do to go down in history as one of the most memorable men to ever live, gave all his fame, fortune, and glory to serve God. His vision shaped the world as we know it today, and thats the best connection to make there.
3. Mass.:....Well, I knew when to make the sign of the cross? I guess that counts for mass participation....Okay Fr. John and Fr. Joseph, y'all can settle down if you're reading this. I actually DO know the order of the mass enough to follow it in Italian.....The observation that came back to me again, is the notion of universality. I've participated in many masses in Belize, but every time I go through a mass outside of my home parish, I still am somewhat excited by the universality of the Catholic church. Granted: Catholic does mean universal.
I know we are in the hub of the Church. I guess it's just amazing to see a world so torn apart by hatred and violence, and united by means of a mass.
Day 13: Sunday Sunday
For today is Sunday...the day of the Sabbath. A day of rest and of refection in the name of God....unnnnless you're on a study abroad trip. However, I'll never trade today's experience for a day of rest...I think the best way to highlight the day would be to break it up into three activities.
1. Santa Maria sopra Minerva (Basilica of St. Mary Above Minerva): No, this church is not saying that Mary is above Minerva..although she is...this basilica is built upon a Roman era temple to Minerva. Cool. Moving on....This place of worship contains three major pieces: the body of St. Catherine of Siena, the reconstruction of Catherine's study area, and Michaelangelo's "Cristo della Minerva." The body and the reconstructed study was quite moving, and that's all I'll say to avoid fluff. However, I was very struck by "Cristo della Minerva" or "Christ the Redeemer " (pictured below).
1. Santa Maria sopra Minerva (Basilica of St. Mary Above Minerva): No, this church is not saying that Mary is above Minerva..although she is...this basilica is built upon a Roman era temple to Minerva. Cool. Moving on....This place of worship contains three major pieces: the body of St. Catherine of Siena, the reconstruction of Catherine's study area, and Michaelangelo's "Cristo della Minerva." The body and the reconstructed study was quite moving, and that's all I'll say to avoid fluff. However, I was very struck by "Cristo della Minerva" or "Christ the Redeemer " (pictured below).
I spoke once before about crucifixion depictions in relation to actual relevance to the crucifixion process. Michaelangelo finished this piece in 1521, so roughly three years to complete. We see that christ in positioned in the contrapasso, showing his relaxed and confident nature (also in Michaelangelo's "David"). However, I would like to focus on the cloth placed around Christ's right thigh. This is actually a late addition the the piece during the baroque period after Michaelangelo's death. The original work was correct in its crucifixion depiction with christ completely exposed to the elements in the nude.....ohh baroque.
2. The St. Ignatius rooms: ...humbling...nerve racking...shaking...mind blowing....St. Ignatius of Loyola, who shared the same desire I do to go down in history as one of the most memorable men to ever live, gave all his fame, fortune, and glory to serve God. His vision shaped the world as we know it today, and thats the best connection to make there.
3. Mass.:....Well, I knew when to make the sign of the cross? I guess that counts for mass participation....Okay Fr. John and Fr. Joseph, y'all can settle down if you're reading this. I actually DO know the order of the mass enough to follow it in Italian.....The observation that came back to me again, is the notion of universality. I've participated in many masses in Belize, but every time I go through a mass outside of my home parish, I still am somewhat excited by the universality of the Catholic church. Granted: Catholic does mean universal.
I know we are in the hub of the Church. I guess it's just amazing to see a world so torn apart by hatred and violence, and united by means of a mass.
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Day 12: Everybody's Working for the Weekend
Saturday is here! Thus, the weekend. An early morning start took us to the Catacomb of San Callisto. I'm not "catacomb-ed out" by any means, but this catacomb was nothing surprising. Yes, there were at one point nine popes buried there and the original tomb of St. Cecilia as well, but I was not super surprised. All of the tombs were completely empty, and the frescos were typical run of the mill frescos that we have seen in other catacombs or early christian communities. Jonah was still being spit out of a sea monster, which as we know is reference to the earlier myth of the god Juno....
My day really started when we popped out of the catacomb and I saw "San Giovanni in Laterano: Autobus 618). I turned to Chris and said, "Screw food, we're going there first." Dr. Bednarz has this on the list of things to do in Rome, so why not when we are already this close. So, we walked down the Appian Way (a road that Paul most likely traveled on as referenced by Acts 28), to the bus stop....
Arrival at St. John Lateran, Benedict XVI's Bishop seat, was absolutely stunning. As we turned right into the Piazza Giovanni, we stared down what is the largest obelisk in Rome. Standing at 45.7 meters high...Then, we saw the beautiful facade (much mimicking the facade of St. Peter's)....everyone kept attempting to capture the entire front of the church, but had to stand at least a football field or two away from the entrance to get a photo in its entirety....Massive.
Observations from St. J....Above are two photos depicting St. John the Evangelist, of who the church is named after. Both, although different mediums, show John with an eagle at his side or behind him. Irony..this symbol associated with John is said to be because of his high theological style in his gospel; a gospel which is actually written by who we think is John the Less, a scholastic of sorts under John the evangelist. At the same time, John is notorious for giving symbols in his apocalyptic literature that is the Gospel of John and Revelation. A large symbol in this case would be an eagle symbolizing Rome. The evil force and cause of all evil in the world, the nation persecuting christians during the time John writes his bible, uses the eagle as its main protector or symbol. Therefore, in John's apocalyptic literature he uses the eagle as Rome...Back to the original point, it's interesting how we see depictions of an eagle with John. Much to the Roman ignorance at the time, they probably read John's gospel, recognized the triumph and victory it portrayed, and slapped an eagle to his name.
On our way back home, Dr. Bednarz decided to take me, Chris, and Jacob to Santa Maria degli Angeli...Most churches here in Rome have baroque-style facades in front of your basic "gaudy baroque mess" interior we are so used to seeing by now. However, this church is built over the frigidarium (cool baths) of the Baths of Diocletion. The facade is brick ruin,and upon entering, is another gaudy baroque-mess. However, this mixing is absolutely beautiful. Not only did this church meld the architecture and design of Roma and modern eras, but also the ideals...Galileo seemed to have a huge hand in this church. Could he have been a patron looking to gain honor from a church? It was true that his heliocentric ideals, borrowed from Copernicus, were seen as heresy. The patron-client relationship would attempt to praise Galileo in hopes that he would support the church and the church would speak well about Galileo in time of inquisition. Below are a couple photos depicting the astrological ideals meshing with the catholic, and captions below each.
OHHHHHHHH and one more thing happened today ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
nam nam nam!
My day really started when we popped out of the catacomb and I saw "San Giovanni in Laterano: Autobus 618). I turned to Chris and said, "Screw food, we're going there first." Dr. Bednarz has this on the list of things to do in Rome, so why not when we are already this close. So, we walked down the Appian Way (a road that Paul most likely traveled on as referenced by Acts 28), to the bus stop....
Arrival at St. John Lateran, Benedict XVI's Bishop seat, was absolutely stunning. As we turned right into the Piazza Giovanni, we stared down what is the largest obelisk in Rome. Standing at 45.7 meters high...Then, we saw the beautiful facade (much mimicking the facade of St. Peter's)....everyone kept attempting to capture the entire front of the church, but had to stand at least a football field or two away from the entrance to get a photo in its entirety....Massive.
Observations from St. J....Above are two photos depicting St. John the Evangelist, of who the church is named after. Both, although different mediums, show John with an eagle at his side or behind him. Irony..this symbol associated with John is said to be because of his high theological style in his gospel; a gospel which is actually written by who we think is John the Less, a scholastic of sorts under John the evangelist. At the same time, John is notorious for giving symbols in his apocalyptic literature that is the Gospel of John and Revelation. A large symbol in this case would be an eagle symbolizing Rome. The evil force and cause of all evil in the world, the nation persecuting christians during the time John writes his bible, uses the eagle as its main protector or symbol. Therefore, in John's apocalyptic literature he uses the eagle as Rome...Back to the original point, it's interesting how we see depictions of an eagle with John. Much to the Roman ignorance at the time, they probably read John's gospel, recognized the triumph and victory it portrayed, and slapped an eagle to his name.
On our way back home, Dr. Bednarz decided to take me, Chris, and Jacob to Santa Maria degli Angeli...Most churches here in Rome have baroque-style facades in front of your basic "gaudy baroque mess" interior we are so used to seeing by now. However, this church is built over the frigidarium (cool baths) of the Baths of Diocletion. The facade is brick ruin,and upon entering, is another gaudy baroque-mess. However, this mixing is absolutely beautiful. Not only did this church meld the architecture and design of Roma and modern eras, but also the ideals...Galileo seemed to have a huge hand in this church. Could he have been a patron looking to gain honor from a church? It was true that his heliocentric ideals, borrowed from Copernicus, were seen as heresy. The patron-client relationship would attempt to praise Galileo in hopes that he would support the church and the church would speak well about Galileo in time of inquisition. Below are a couple photos depicting the astrological ideals meshing with the catholic, and captions below each.
 |
| Facade of Santa Maria degli Angeli |
 |
 |
| Photos above and below this one show the complete astrological calendar. It is read with a light beam shining in through the upper left hand corner of the photo above. |
 |
| Lastly, the ring of the cupola (symbolic of churches) is a beautiful stained glass of the planets and stars. |
OHHHHHHHH and one more thing happened today ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
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