Columns and Curiosities of Rome: A Summer with the Ancient Romans

 

Columns and Curiosities of Rome

Bella Sawabini- Rome, Italy

The remains of the Theater of Marcellus (left) and the Temple of Apollo Sosianus (center). 

    

This summer, I decided to study alongside the ancient Romans in Italy's capital city. The city that is said to have been founded on April 21st, 753 BCE by Romulus, the first king of Rome and brother of twin Remus. Legend has it that Romulus and Remus were found by a she-wolf who suckled the two infants until a shepherd rescued them. 

My journey to Rome was part of CISAbroad's Summer in Rome program, and the host college was the American University of Rome (AUR). I decided that I wanted to go to Rome because I have always been fascinated with the art throughout the centuries, including paintings, sculptures, and architecture. It is amazing that the ancient Romans accomplished so much with their advanced technologies and brutal battles for land. I also am interested in Greek and Roman mythology, which I took at MC and loved! I thought there was no better way to truly experience these tales and the culture of the ancient Romans than to study in Romulus' beloved city.

- Classes -

My classes were both amazing. I took art and archaeology of Rome, and both were on site meaning we had to meet at various locations. I enjoyed hearing the history of Rome's monuments and how different groups used them throughout the centuries. For example, the Temple of Hercules Victor (pictured left) was a victory monument dedicated to the god Hercules, and was preserved due to its conversion into a church after the introduction of Christianity into Rome. Both of my classes reinforced my learning because they were related, and allowed me to see many different sites with informative professors. They also took a hands-on approach to learning rather than sitting in a classroom, which helped me retain more facts and explore my environment. 

- Pompeii -

Pompeii is a city that has been frozen in time due to the fatal eruption of Mount Vesuvius. For my last weekend abroad, I decided to go with a tour group to visit Pompeii. It was an hour train ride to Naples, and then a twenty minute shuttle ride to the site. Although in the present the city has recovered, ancient Pompeii was abandoned and no one dared to come back until the 18th century. We got to see various sites in the ancient city, such as elite homes, their colosseum, shops, and even restaurants. We also got to see archaeologists at work uncovering more homes from underneath the volcanic ash. Approximately 1/4 of the city is still left undisturbed. I was glad to have gone on this excursion, and see the legacy left behind of the citizens.   

- Final Thoughts -

Overall, I was incredibly pleased with this experience. I worked on personal skills such as independence, communication, and navigation. Additionally I found out that I absolutely love the ancient Romans, and that I would love to learn more about their society. Even though there were some bumps in the road during my time in Rome, I was able to manage and felt more confident with myself. I think that studying abroad helped my personal growth and development, and I am excited to come back to campus to use what I've practiced in Rome. 

- Why Abroad? -

College is one of the few times in life where you can go out and experience the world. Before you get super busy with grad school or a job, I would definitely recommend going to study abroad! Whether it is for a week or a semester, the benefits of it are infinite and help with personal skills and professional ones. MC will help you navigate the process and finances, so don't worry! If you're set on it, just click the apply button and prepare for a time filled with learning and fun! 

Augustus in front of the Trajan Markets 

and Forum