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Trying to find a destination where you can see a lot in a small amount of time?
Rome is your city!
There are so many things in a close proximity, it is easy to fill your days in a productive way.
Three things that you can check off your list in one area (and one the same ticket) are the Roman Colosseum, the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.
The Colosseum is a huge draw and may result in waiting in line for some time, however, capacity restrictions are not as stringent for the neighboring Forum and Palatine Hill, where you can see some of the best ruins and some of the best views. After checking out the famed site of gladiator battles, head on over for a glimpse at the area where ancient Roman citizens utilized for their every day life.
The Roman Forum today, showcases the ruins of several important ancient government buildings and was once a marketplace and site of victory processions, elections, public speeches and criminal trials. Many locals and visitors presently utilize the plaza between the Colosseum and the Forum as a meeting point, however, this rectangular forum was probably the most famed meeting place in the world and in history.
Some of the oldest and most important structures were located in the Forum, including the earliest shrines, temples, the royal residence and government offices (including the Senate House) and many of these architectural fragments and excavations can be examined at close range.
Entering the complex near the Arch of Titus, we discovered many paths throughout to survey the area in its entirety, encompassing the two basilicas, Fulvia Aemilia, a 100 meter public hall with a two-story porticoed facade dating back to 179 BC and Basilica Julia, built by Julius Caesar on the site of Basilica Sempronia in 54 BC. The Tempio di Antonino e Faustina, erected in AD 141 and transformed into a church in the 8th century (Chiesa di San Lorenzo in Miranda) and the Temple of Romulus are two of the most intact buildings on the premises. Near the Temple of Romulus, you will find the Basilica of Maxentius, the largest building on the forum, originally measuring 100 meters by 65 meters.
The Via Sacra, the Forum’s main thoroughfare brought us to many of the main sights, including the Tempio di Giulio Cesare, built by Augustus in 29 BC, the site where Julius Caesar was cremated and the Curia, the original seat of the Roman Senate which was converted into a church in the Middle Ages. Here, we were able to check out the large piece of black marble in front of the Curia, the Lapis Niger, which is said to cover the tomb of Romulus, a mythological figure.
Also on the Via Sacra, we discovered the Casa delle Vestali, the home of the virgins who tended the sacred flame in the Tempio di Vesta. These priestesses, aged between six and ten years, were selected from aristocratic families to serve in the temple for thirty years. So great was the responsibility of keeping both the flame and their virginity intact that the penalty of flogging and/or death was imposed for those who did not adhere to the orders. The statues which honor these virgins line the Via Sacra and though most are in good condition, a many are missing their heads.
At the end of the Via Sacra, we came upon the Arco di Settimio Severo, a 23 meter high structure, built in AD 203 and dedicated to the emperor and his two sons, Caracalla and Geta. The arch commemorated the Roman victory over the Parthians.
The remains of the Rostri could be seen in front of the arch. This elaborate podium was the site of Mark Antony’s famous, “Friends, Romans and countrymen…” speech. Facing the Rostri is the Colonna di Foca (Column of Phocus) which fronts what once was the Forum’s main square.
Behind the Colonna, we spied eight granite columns which are all that remain of the Temple of Saturn, an important temple that also acted as the state treasury.
Other notable structures are the ruins of the Tempio della Concordia, the Tempio di Vespasiano and the Portico degli Dei Consenti as well as the 6th century Chiesa di Santa Maria Antigua, the oldest and most important monument in the Roman Forum. This church is occasionally opened for temporary exhibitions and showcases early Christian art from the 6th through 9th centuries, including one of the earliest icons in existence of the the Virgin Mary and Child. In front of the church you can find the, now inaccessible, Imperial Ramp which was an underground passageway that allowed the emperors to access the Forum privately.
Palatine Hill is connected to the Forum and at the center of the seven hills of Rome. Standing above the Forum, it was once the place where Imperial palaces were built. Heading uphill, we made our way through the grounds.
Included with admission to the Colosseum and the Forum, this archaeological site is worth a visit for the monuments located here as well as for the views, which not only include the Forum, but Circus Maximus on the far side. If you are versed in mythology, then you will also be aware that this is believed to be the site of the cave where Romulus and Remus were found and cared for by the she-wolf, Luperca.
The Palace of Domitian is the main structure at this location and it is located at the far side of Palatine Hill. Also known as the Flavian Palace, it was built as Domitian’s imperial palace.
Since many of the structures are mainly ruins, it was a bit difficult to make sense of what was there, however, some areas and buildings are well preserved. The Stadium of Domitian resembles a hippodrome, yet, there has been debate on whether it was used for that purpose or as the emperor’s gardens.
The Houses of Augustus and Livia, are still standing and in good condition and house some impressive art and frescoes. Tours of both of these impressive structures are available, however, advance tickets were required and we were not in possession. If you can secure them ahead of time, it is worth the effort in order to check out Augustus’ private study.
The Palatine Museum is also open to the public and contains a display of Roman statuary and findings from the hippodrome, however, being the end of our day, we decided that this would have to wait until another visit.
The most important thing to see at the Palatine, however, are the views! Though we were not as prepared as we could have been, I think next time, I would bring a picnic and enjoy this area for a little longer…taking in the Roman landscape spread out before Palatine Hill, from Circus Maximus, to Aventine Hill and the spectacular ruins of the Forum, the Colosseum and the Capitoline Hill.
Rome never disappoints!
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Roman Forum
- http://www.turismoroma.it/cosa-fare/fori?lang=it
- Address: Via della Salara Vecchia, 5/6, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
- Hours: 0830-1900, daily
- Admission: Combined ticket with Colosseum, the Roman Forum and Palatine, Adults, 12€. European Union members (18-24 years), 7.50€. Children, under 17, free. Seniors, over 65, free.
- Getting There: Take the “B” Line Metro and exit at the Colosseo station. Take the “A” Line Metro and exit at the Manzoni station to take Tram 3, two stops south. Bus #s 51, 75, 85, 87 and 118 run to the Colosseum. Taxis and Uber will drop you across Via dei Fori Imperiali.
Palatine Hill
- Address: Via di San Gregorio, 30
- Hours: 0830-1900, daily
- Admission: Combined ticket with Colosseum, the Roman Forum and Palatine, Adults, 12€. European Union members (18-24 years), 7.50€. Children, under 17, free. Seniors, over 65, free.
- Getting There: Take the “B” Line Metro and exit at the Colosseo station. Take the “A” Line Metro and exit at the Manzoni station to take Tram 3, two stops south. Bus #s 51, 75, 85, 87 and 118 run to the Colosseum. Taxis and Uber will drop you across Via dei Fori Imperiali.
Having been to this architectural phenomenon at least five or six times, I never tire of seeing its structural prowess which has withstood the elements for so many years. I enjoy meandering through the passageways and gazing out on the arena which was the site of much action in its early years.
The Colosseum is the largest amphitheater in the world, measuring 186 meters long, 156 meters wide and 50 meters high!
There were three stories, each containing columns of a different style. The bottom columns were from the simple Doric order, the center, Ionic and the top, Corinthian. 
The emperor’s enjoyed the entertainment so much that they not only organized the events but also paid for them, allowing for the free entry of those desiring to attend. By also providing food, they ensured their popularity and support.
Emperor Vespasian’s son, Titus, was the first to hold games to commemorate the completion of the Colosseum. These games continued for 100 days. Gladiatorial games continued until the fifth century and animal hunts until the sixth.
Those with weak constitutions were not encouraged to attend as many events were quite brutal. During certain games held by the emperors, around 10,000 animals were killed in a single day.
A large number of rooms and underground passages were located beneath the Colosseum. Here, gladiators and animals waited to meet their fate. There were also thirty-six trap doors which could be used for special effects. 
Restoration efforts began in the 1990s and can still be seen continuing today. Funding from the admittance of thousands of visitors each year allow for the preservation of this mighty monument.
There is a ticket booth within the Colosseum, however, you can avoid waiting in line twice, once for the ticket purchase and once for entry. A new ticket office has been opened across from the Colosseum and alongside the entrance to the Roman Forum. After purchasing ticket, make sure to enter the line for entrance at the Colosseum. Tickets can also be purchased online and and by telephone.
Once our entrance fee was paid, we were directed upstairs to the upper observation terrace. As we exited the doors onto the pavilion, luck would have it that a ship was passing through the locks!
After the final lock, the Atacama Queen sailed off under the Centennial Bridge and into Lake Miraflores for the next phase of its journey.
The Hall of Water: Source of Life highlights the importance of water, the conservation of the environment and biodiversity, protection of the Canal Watershed and the commitment to the sustainable management of resources.
Operation of the Canal is spotlighted in The Canal in Action. Here you can experience what it is like to guide a boat through a lock culvert in one of the navigation simulators. Canal improvement, modernization and maintenance projects are also the focus of this exhibit.
Information on the importance of the Canal to world trade is the center of the information presented in The Canal in the World. Descriptions of the trade routes served by the Canal and its main users, the vessels that transit the waterway and the commodities they carry and the future competitiveness of the Canal and how the Republic of Panama will benefit can be learned about here.
After our tour of the exhibition halls was complete, we stepped out on the two lower observation terraces for a more intimate look at the now-empty lock and the picturesque, white-washed building resting on the other side of the canal. On the second floor, we discovered stadium seating…seating I wish we had known about as the Atacama passed through earlier. Looking off into the distance, we scoured the horizon, hoping for another freighter or even a cruise ship.
As I entered the fortress-like facade, with its two large clock towers and massive solid walls, I ran my hand over the large wooden doors passing through into the interior. The first thing I noticed, however, was how dark the cathedral appeared. Though the second story of the ambulatory has a series of windows and the narrow windows of the lateral aisles allow light to enter, the church appeared to be much more gloomy than others I have visited.
Dodging other visitors, we made our way toward the front of the church admiring the rose window in the West facade and the interesting barrel vaulting of the nave.
Especially interesting were the chapels, one especially enclosed by a Romanesque gate. Others include a funerary chapel, near the entrance of the cathedral, built by wealthy merchant Bartolomeu Joanes in the 14th century which still contains his tomb with his laying figure inside.
At the end of the 13th century, King Dinis of Portugal ordered the construction of a Gothic-style cloister. The cloister was damaged, along with many chapels and the royal pantheon during the earthquake of 1755. Since renovated, the cloisters can be visited today, however, when we visited, it was Sunday and they had not yet opened for the afternoon. I was truly disappointed as I understand, the tile work is simply amazing and it offers some of the most beautiful architecture in the city. Additionally, we were not able to visit the Treasury as it is also closed on Sunday.
Approaching the vertical structure from the rear, I gazed up at the walkway connecting the tower to Largo do Carmo, catching a glimpse of those traversing the walkway and others peeking out over the edge of the observation decks. The iron structure, with its neo-gothic arches and geometric patterns, is truly remarkable to see up close, towering seven stories with its four vertical columns, each composed of two pillars. And if you think there is some semblance to the Eiffel Tower, you would be correct. Roberto Arménio was, indeed, a former student of civil engineer and architect, Gustave Eiffel!
Exiting the elevator, I stepped out on the platform and made my way around the structure.
After purchasing my ticket, I took my place in line hoping to get a good spot in the teleférico. Luckily, I was one of the first in and snagged a position in the front of the car, heading to the top of Urca Hill, 220 meters above sea level. This part of the ride offered me my first aerial views of Copacabana and Ilha Cortunduba just off the coast. After I disembarked, I walked around for a few minutes, inspecting the two cable cars displayed here…the first cable car from 1912 and a more modern version. There are a number of trails that run through the thick vegetation, however, I decided continue my journey upward after getting my first views of Niteroi Bridge and Guanabara Bay and my second viewing of the Christ statue standing proud on its peak.
Boarding the next, larger teleferico on Urca, I was once again lucky enough to have a good position in the cabin for the three minute ride. Upon my exit, the view from the top of Sugarloaf was incomparable to any other I had ever seen. With a 360 degree view of the area, I gazed upon the whole of Rio, Niteroi and the blue waters of the Atlantic and Guanabara Bay and inland to the tropical forested mountains, including the peak, Dedo de Deus (God’s Finger), located 50 miles from Rio. Spying a low-flying airplane, I followed its descent until I located the Santos Dumont Airport in the north.
Deciding to have lunch at the restaurant overlooking the ocean, I took a seat and prepared to order. After waiting a while, I noticed that the staff was a extremely busy and no one had yet to take my order, wasting precious time. Yet, all was not lost…having come down to this area, I discovered a trail. Walking among the beautiful trees and tropical growth on the well-paved path, I noticed that I was being followed. A marmoset was running on the handrail next to me! As I stopped to watch, two more joined him. An amazing spectacle, they preened and posed and then I was fortunate to hear them call to each other. Truly priceless!
Christ the Redeemer Statue. Cristo Redentor.
Driving through the city was fascinating…the architecture and busy streets held my attention until I realized we were climbing. After a while, we pulled into the National Park area and the Cosme Velho station. Here, we were transferred to another van which would take us the remainder of the way to the statue.
The sun rose higher as we glided down river, finally pulling our boats onto the shore for our first rest and excursion. Arizona Hot Springs. Walking past boulders, gushing streams and high bluffs, we made our way inland through the slot canyon, noticing the temperature around us rising. Stepping into the water, it was noticeably warmer. Further upstream, the temperatures rose even higher. Climbing a twenty foot ladder to an overhead cliff, the water temperature was extremely hot, pouring forth from a geothermal spring. Taking a seat, we soaked for a few minutes, our muscles enjoying the torridity.
After paying our admission, we meandered through the museum, learning about the McIlhenney family and the tabasco sauce’s beginnings, from why the type of bottle was used to used to the use of its “caution” label.
My favorite part was the merchandise dedicated to the Tabasco® brand. From Tabasco® Barbies, to bobbleheads to golf clubs, there are many fans of the product willing to buy products that look like it or bear the label. Tabasco® has appeared in many motion pictures, television shows, songs, novels, comics and photographs. Stars that are fans have even gotten in on the action. Supermodel Kate Upton sported a dress with the Tabasco logo as a Halloween costume in 2011 and Michael Anthony of Van Halen owns a Tabasco® Sauce themed guitar.
Another part of the museum that was especially interesting to me was of life on the island. A friend of our family grew up there and her father worked for the McIlhenney family for most of his life. I remember attending her wedding as a child and how the idea that we were going “all the way” to an island was so exciting. The modern day inhabitants, however, were once preceded by Native Americans who had found that the island harbored a precious natural resource…a massive salt dome. The Native Americans extracted the salt which was traded with other tribes. Much like the Native Americans, the McIlhenney’s made a living from the land by discovering that he field’s unique soil aided in the growth of the pepper which was used in the production of Tabasco®. Today, some members from the same family who once assisted Edward McIlhenney in his quest to produce the unique product still work and reside on the island.
After exiting the museum, we followed the well marked path leading to other parts of the tour. As we made our way to the rear of the property, we were a little taken aback at the signs warning that bears frequent the area. Cautiously, we walked along the well-manicured path, under the massive oak trees toward the Greenhouse where pepper plants are cultivated. It should be noted that while the first peppers were completely grown and then mashed into the finished product, the seed peppers now are grown in the unique soil of the salt dome but then exported to international farmers to ensure steady growing seasons.
After the Greenhouse, we moved to the Barrel Museum which impressively displays many barrels and the materials used to produce them. A short video as well as photography aids in the understanding of how these wooden containers used to age the peppers are constructed.
Continuing on the the Barrel Warehouse, it was a necessity to breathe shallowly and sometimes completely pinch your nose. This huge warehouse safeguards thousands of white oak barrels of mash from many nations which is aged for up to three years. These barrels are topped with a layer of salt, from the island’s dome, which protects the mash from impurities. With the evolving and mellowing of the flavors, the smell becomes extremely pungent…especially on warm days.
After the aging is complete and the mash is checked for flavor and heat level, it is then transferred to the Tabasco® factory, our next stop. During the fourth stage of the tour, we learned how the mash is blended in large vats.
The sixth part of the tour is a diorama showing how minors work and extract salt from the mine. Exiting the “mine”, we entered into the part of the plant where the Tabasco® is bottled. Being that it was a Saturday, the plant was not in operation, however, I am sure that watching the bottles travel throughout the busy workroom and the numbers add up on the production board is quite impressive.
Once our tour was complete, we headed to Restaurant 1868. Invited to a crawfish boil that afternoon, I insisted that I would only accompany my parents and save room for the many pounds of the crustaceans that I planned to stuff myself with later in the day. Once I walked into the cafeteria-style eatery, smelled the cajun cooking and read the wide array of dishes offered, my resolve was starting to crack. The final straw was when a patron walked by with a plate of the crawfish nachos…okay, so I made room for crawfish nachos and later had boiled crawfish!
Stomachs full, we finally headed next door to the country store. Anything Tabasco® can be found here, but, the best part is the sampling area in the rear of the store. You can try many of the different flavors of Tabasco and some samples of the food products. You’d think after my huge plate of crawfish nachos, I should not have been able to look at food, but I sampled everything, including the Tabasco flavored green beans. In fact, I loved them so much, I walked out with a case of them!
Truly a surprise, the Tabasco® Factory Tour was more than I ever imagined. I visit some unique cities and museums around the world, but this well put-together attraction can measure up any day.