By Edith G. Williams

Archeologist Dr. Darius Arya took us on a rich tour of some of the most famous archaeological Roman sites. He was great at bringing multiple worlds alive as he explained the politics of why Hadrian adopted Trajan, the steps needed to build and decorate Trajan’s column, the difference between a free man and a freed man, the ups and downs of the Roman empire and how they are reflected in the built environment. His passion was obvious…..he was taking photos (I know he’s seen this stuff before!) and seemed just as in awe of the deep history of Rome as someone just discovering it. He got us into the fenced off area near Trajan’s column allowing us to see the inscription and to see this magnificent structure from the ground while keeping an eye out for the dive bombing seagulls.

Two things I most appreciated (in addition to the tour given by someone who is so smart and great at communicating) are: Getting a humbling perspective on how new contemporary Rome really is and the lovely water in the fountains on this hot day it was like getting a tiny taste of something really good about being alive.