April 2 - Mum finds Favio

We successfully try the tram as a means of transport to get us to the Stazione Termini where we catch our 'hop on hop off' bus.  Our first destination for the day is the 'Mouth of Truth' but not before our bus takes us along the Appian Way where we drive under the Porta San Sebastiano; the gate of the Appia in the Aurelian Walls. This area is a mix of villas and open spaces which must be a welcome retreat for locals getting away from the crowds in the city.

Arriving at La Bocca della Verità (mouth of truth) we are pleasantly surprised that the queue is small and before you know it we have our hands in the mouth, channeling Audrey just like in the film Roman Holiday. The mouth is attached to the porch wall of the the church Santa Maria in Cosmedin and we have a brief wonder through this little treasure before checking out the souvenir shop. 

In an effort to find a decent restaurant for lunch we come across a stylishly decorated shop selling the most exquisite sweet treats. Here we buy a pastry to tied us over until we find a lunch venue.

Favio, Favio, where art they Favio

Our next destination is a wonder past the Vittorio Emanuele II Monument, Forum and on to the Colesseum.  Here at last we find the elusive Favio dressed as a Roman Gladiator and happily taking a fee for a photo.  He joyfully approaches us with the news that his latest conquest paid him 20 Euros for the privilege.  Mum is quick to tell him that we don't have a 20 to give him and he wonders off. Later we consider this a missed photo opportunity.

A dead Pope

Our last visit of the day is to the Vatican City where the wait in the queue for entry into Saint Peter's Basilica is so fast that we take the opportunity to join it and before we know it we are standing, gazing in awe at the splendor of its interior.  With amusement we notice that the church has brought out its dead for Easter and we check out at least three dead Popes that are on display in air tight caskets at various alters.  No, we are not kidding when we say 'dead Popes' although they all look very wax like in appearance. I guess they don't want them to miss the Easter Mass.

On our way home I take the opportunity to check out the train timetable for next Monday's trip to Florence and settle Mum on one of the few chairs to be found at the Stazione Termini.  Upon my return from the information booth I discover Mum chatting to a young Australian fellow who is on his honeymoon. 

Relaxing in our apartment we both agree it was a day well spent.