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Rome ...

... was a little cold for the group's first few days of exploration.  A visit to San Luigi dei Francesi designed by Giacomo della Porta and built between 1518 and 1589 was followed by an extended lunch in the beautiful and famous square, Piazza Navona, which is right near-by, where the boys admired masterpieces by Bernini, della Porta, and Borromini.

After lunch and some sketching, the boys visited the only Gothic church in Rome, the Basilica Santa Maria sopra Minerva.  The church is so named because it was built directly on the foundations of a temple to Minerva, the Roman goddess of wisdom, built by Pompey c. 50 BC.  The basilica that stands today was begun in 1280.  Gelato finished off the afternoon before the group headed back to the hotel.  For the first meal in Rome, all sang happy birthday to Brad D. and almost everyone managed to stay awake during the three course meal--a record, almost, in and of itself--a long, but exciting day was had by all.

At the Colosseum, Flavian Amphitheatre, on day two, after hearing Coach Morales' incredible history of sports lecture, the group realized they'd been "robbed."  A few passports and travelers checks were stolen.  Everything, though, is under control.  Families affected have all been contacted.  Checks and passports are being replaced.  All are healthy and in great spirits.  Ah, the excitement of Rome!

Photos are from the public domain.

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