Another day in Roma.
A gentle 20 minute walk took us close to the hop on/off bus stop. In a side street nearby we were able to grab a quick bite. Chris was pretty happy to have found somewhere that advertised an "English Breakfast", so in we went. Friendly service, decent coffee, good croissant, okay English Breakfast, and off we went. Our major stop today was the Palatine Hill and Roman Forum. Lots of walking, climbing, and lots of history. These ancient ruins, many of which are in some state of preservation date to 1-2BC. It's hard to imagine the buildings as they used to be as so many of them are little more than piles of bricks and stone. But the whole area was a thriving centre of business and worship. Filled with temples dedicated to gods and leaders, homes of the wealthy and noble, hanging gardens, (Roman) baths, and marketplaces, it must once have been a very colourful and energetic place to experience.
After a couple of hours exploring, and about another hour trying to find the exit, we passed the National Memorial on foot. We discovered a massive flight of stairs and determined NOT to climb them; headed back to catch the next bus and ultimately some sustenance, having successfully walked off breakfast. We found a place promising meat (steak etc) that Chris was pretty keen to try. Fortunately they served a variety of vegetarian burgers so I didn't starve.
We made it back to our apartment late in the afternoon; ready for a quiet night in.
