Once my friends and I consumed as much Italian cuisine that our stomachs allowed we made our way toward the Coliseum followed by Palatine Steps and the Roman Forum. My feet ache and my fear of being accidentally hit by an Italian car grow by the minute. The group trip offered us a daytime perspective similar to that of the ancient Romans. The moment we saw the vastness of the Coliseum we agreed to make a second visit to this site. Later in the evening we traversed the streets back to the Coliseum. We were stopped in our tracks at the sight of the Coliseum lit up at dusk. Seeing the Coliseum in both the day and night was a life changing opportunity that we could not pass up. I had felt emotions that I hadn’t hours before when first visiting this massive amphitheater.
The stark contrast between the warm yellow glow of Coliseum lights and the night sky makes the structure stand out far more than we could ever imagine. The lights illuminate every structural aspect. The cracks, the rubble, and every flaw being highlighted only makes it more regal. My admiration for Roman culture was intensified from this experience.
First seeing the Coliseum in the daylight reminded me of all the historical events that took place within its walls. I struggle to understand how the events taken place in the Coliseum were celebrated with such enthusiasm.