Fourteen Classics students had the opportunity to travel to Rome over the October half term for four nights, with the aim of visiting famous historical sights and expanding our wider knowledge of the subject (and of course, eating lots of pizza and pasta).
The trip included visits to some of the most famous ancient Roman sites, such as the Colosseum, Trajan’s Column and Market, and the Ara Pacis. Seeing these grand and important structures in person was breath-taking, and really put into perspective the power and innovation of the Romans. It was so interesting to finally contextualise these famous places that we have been studying for so long.
We also spent a day around and inside the Vatican (our trip spanned two countries!). While our courses have not necessarily covered the history of the Romans and Christianity, we were able to explore and be taught about this with a tour guide. To learn about the Roman persecution of the Christians was absolutely harrowing – a time for definite reflection. We visited the Basilica itself and were mesmerised by its intricacies and size, as well as the spectacular Sistine Chapel.
We arrived in the evening and were immediately treated to a three-course delicious traditional dinner to fuel us up for the next day of exploring – this set the precedent for the rest of the trip.
Averaging 20,000 steps every day in Italian heat was hard work, but the meticulous planning of our teachers meant that the trip ran incredibly smoothly. We especially appreciated the surprise diversions from our itinerary – such as to throw coins in the Trevi Fountain! It was an amazing experience which produced some great memories and a newfound appreciation of Rome.
Síomha Keith, L6
