We can't believe it has been a week since we first arrived in Rome! We have seen and done so many exciting things over the past 7 days and today was no exception. We began our journey at Scala Santa and ended by a day at the lake. It was a perfect Saturday in Rome!
We started the day by visiting the Sanctuary of the Holy Stairs, or Scala Santa. Within lies the stairs which are believed to be climbed by Jesus Christ when he appeared before Pontius Pilate. The stairs were imported from Jerusalem in 326 AD. Normally, the marble steps are covered in wood and have been for nearly 300 years; however, they have been temporarily uncovered and our group had the unique experience to climb the actual marble steps that Jesus climbed. The ascension of 28 steps is completed entirely on your knees, with frescoes displaying the life of Christ as you ascend the steps. It was a beautiful moment for all of us!
Next we hopped on the train to Castel Gandolfo, the place of the Apostolic Palace. The small village was picturesque and was surrounded by mountains and Lake Albano. First was a bus tour of the extensive gardens which measure 57 acres and even includes its own farm -three cheers for sustainability!
Then it was onto the Papal Palace for a tour with Jill Alexy to see the Pope’s summer home, along with a few of the famous 'Pope mobiles' parked just outside.
We ended the day with an evening at Lago Albano. It was perfecto!
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