Oggi - Today is the feast day of the patron saints of Rome - St. Peter and St. Paul

Il Vaticano - il 28 giugno

This afternoon we will be going to the Vatican museum.  Later I will post the new photos.

Prof. Sani discussing the history of the Vatican Museums. 

Our view of the opposite branch as we listen to the history lesson.

The architecture of this building is incredible.

The top of this building also has a huge arched balcony.

In the center of this Vatican Museum area there is a modern sculpture by the Italian Artist Arnaldo Pomodoro (this last name means tomato).  I really liked this sculpture because it turns around like a sphere.  Also it is a piece of modern art placed here.  I never saw it before.  His work can also be found in the U.S. in Washington, D.C. and in New York City.

Heading inside to see Canova's statue.

Il Campidoglio - Capitoline Hill

Today, (June 27, 2011) we were able to view the inside of Rome's City Hall or Capital Hill.  It was a special tour because normally they don't give tours.  We were their special guests from Washington D.C.  Only dignitaries are allowed in these rooms.  It was amazing.  Michelangelo originally was building the Campidoglio but never saw its completion.  The Campidoglio was built near the Roman Forum and actually built over several temples and ruins of those temples.  I had never been to the Campidoglio in all my visits to Rome.  It was very interesting and I learned a lot today.