Italia

While on the topic of Europe, my top place to visit hands downs would be Italy.  Rome, Venice, Tuscany.  The beauty within the cities is like none other.  In my opinion, the most elegantly romantic place in the world.  The culture, foods, people all seem so extravagant.  And Yes.  Italian food is by far my favorite cuisine.  But I have a confession.  I guess I haven't really had authentic Italian food.  So this is all obviously based on what has been depicted by the movies and pictures I have seen.


This YouTube video shows the beauty all over Italy from city to city.

Let me focus on Rome.  The history of the Roman Empire is unparalleled to any other country.  Over 3,000 years ago, Rome was considered the capital of the world.  Yes.  Capital of the world.  I am also Catholic, so I have always been interested in visiting Vatican City specifically St. Peter's Basilica. 

St. Peter's Basilica

In high school, I took a terrible class by the name of Heritage.  Part of the class was the study of historical art.  I still remember the beauty of the Sistine Chapel.  The ceiling painting by Michelangelo.  I was amazed to learn that it actually took him four years to paint.

Sistine Chapel/ "Temptation and Fall" (Picture: exploringeurope)

Some of the most historical and detailed architecture can be found at the Colosseum.  This is one of the biggest symbols of Rome.  The Colosseum is infamous for the sight of gladiator competitions.

Colosseum

Another sight to see is the Roman forum, Rome's biggest archealogical area.  This was the center of polotical, commercial, and religious life.  Rome is also the city of fountains with nearly 300.  The most famous fountain is the Trevi Fountain.  This is the location where you can insure your visit to Rome again by simply throwing a coin in the fountain.  With all the fascinating things to see and do in Italy, I really hope that one day I will be lucky enough to see the beatuy for myself.