Back in the Vatican for the Third Time
It was our last full day of vacation. This day was very special to me because I was in back in the Vatican. I was glad I came and I believe the memories Marc and I made from this trip are going to stay with me vividly for the rest of my life.
There was never any doubt as to where I wanted to spend the new year. Being the Catholic that I am, it just felt right that I gave thanks for the wonderful life that I have and the blessings that I have received. Where else was I going to do that but in St. Peter's Basilica at the Vatican. We weren't sure of the schedule of masses but after having attended mass there already on our first day in Italy, being there was good enough.
Once again, the Pieta by Michaelangelo. We had seen it before during our first visit nearly a week before. Anyway, when it comes to masterpieces like this, there is no way one tires of it.
The Bronze Canopy which I often saw on TV while I watched the Christmas and New Year's Eve Mass on TV way back when I was in Manila, I now saw it up close and in person.
A closer view of the Bronze Canopy where the Pope normally celebrates mass. The mass we attended here took place in the main altar right behind it.
This was the altar behind the bronze canopy.
St. Peter's Basilica was definitely a sight to behold. The side altars and all the paintings in it were all so majestic.
Inasmuch as I wanted to take everything in and remember every detail, there was just too much and I knew it was just going to be impossible. I simply had to enjoy the moment.
I would love to attend Christmas Midnight mass here. Attending mass here on our first day was one experience I shall never forget.
Back at the luxurious mall by Via del Corso
Being back there truly felt wonderful. I never thought I would be fond of Italy as much as I do now. To think, I couldn't wait to leave the country when I first visited it in 1998. I do hope to return many times in the future.
By the time we left, the sun had already set. We knew our way around though so we didn't worry. We were hungry and wanted to eat dinner by that time. However, there was still one sight we had to visit before we left the country and went back to the States.
Call it superstition or just plain silliness, we returned to the TREVI Fountain and made our way to the pond. What for? What else? So we could toss some coins to ensure a return, a quick one, to one of our newest favorite cities in the world.
Marc took this picture exactly as I was throwing the coin into the fountain.
See you again soon, Italy!
Now, Marc's turn. I take it we shall definitely return one day.