Memorable Moments of Rome

 Memorable Moments of Rome

Before this trip, I had never traveled outside the United States, so coming to Rome was a completely new experience for me. So far, it’s been incredible. The city is full of beautiful sights, rich history, and amazing food. Every day feels like I’m discovering something new and unforgettable.

One of the highlights of my time here has been visiting the four major churches of Rome: St. Peter’s Basilica, St. John Lateran, St. Mary Major, and St. Paul Outside the Walls. Each one is unique, and walking through them was awe-inspiring. From the peaceful atmosphere of St. Mary Major to the incredible mosaics of St. Paul Outside the Walls, every church left an impression on me. At St. Peter’s Basilica, I even had the chance to walk all the way up to the top of the dome. Climbing those narrow, winding stairs was definitely a workout, but the view from the top was worth every step. Looking out over the city of Rome from that height was absolutely breathtaking—it felt like seeing the whole city come to life.

But my favorite moments in Rome have been the catacombs and spending New Year’s Eve at the Colosseum. The catacombs are underground burial sites that date back to the early days of Christianity. They were used by early Christians to bury their dead and sometimes as secret places of worship during times of persecution. Walking through the dimly lit tunnels was such a surreal experience. The walls are lined with ancient tombs, and you can feel the history all around you. Our tour guide shared that the catacombs span four floors underground, which was already fascinating, but then they mentioned that just four months ago, a new staircase was discovered, leading to an unexplored section. It’s amazing to think there are still parts of history waiting to be uncovered, hidden beneath our feet.

Celebrating New Year’s Eve at the Colosseum was completely different but just as memorable. All my friends and I gathered there to welcome the new year, surrounded by a lively crowd of locals and visitors. The Colosseum looked stunning, lit up against the night sky, and the fireworks were incredible. We spent the night laughing, cheering, and soaking in the moment. There was so much joy in celebrating together—being in such an iconic place with people I’ve grown close to made it even more special. It was an experience full of happiness that I wouldn’t trade for the world, and it’s a memory I’ll cherish forever.

This trip has already given me so many unforgettable memories, but I’m still excited for everything that’s yet to come. There’s so much more of Rome to explore, and I can’t wait to continue learning and experiencing the city’s rich history and culture. Being here has been such an incredible experience—not only because of the amazing places I’ve seen but also because of the friendships I’ve made and the moments we’ve shared. I feel so lucky to be a part of this journey, and I know it’s something I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life.