The Colosseum, Vespers, and David

Today I toured the Colosseum. A lot of the ruins (such as the marble seating) has been removed over time to rebuild other structures. The floor no longer reamains and it is difficult to imagine 50,000 people sitting there watching gladiators, wild animals, and public execuations. Beneath the floor there are still structures where animals where kept and could be raised by use of an elevator unto the floor of the arena above. It is mind boggling to imagine how old these structures are!

Last night we attended Vespers at St. Paul's outside the walls. Vespers, evening praise of the liturgy of the hours, is song and praise in Latin. This act allows Christians to participate in a holy experience which connects them with God. It is considered an act of homage and praise. Christians partake in Vespers to praise God for everything He has created and to gain intimacy with Him, while they can feel the presence of God and grow in their love for Him.

On Saturday while we were in Florence we went to see the David (by Michelangelo) at the Academy. There was also a fake David outside the Uffizi, but it did not do the real one justice at all. The true David was breathtaking, standing 13 feet tall and chiseled with more detail than thought imaginable. It looked like a real person trapped in stone. Veins stood out in his hands and arms, muscles were visibly flexed, and the furrowed brow and distinction between the iris and pupil gave David a truthfully worried appearance. It is the best piece of art I have ever seen.

Ciao!
Sandi