A Perfect Day in Rome – To The Top of Il Vittoriano

The ‘Perfect Day Live’ had begun. Yes, the day was dictated on the go by you the followers of myself and British Airways. A day of surprises and hidden secrets in Rome. I have given an outline of how the ‘Perfect Day’ works at the top of my previous post. That one was a great place to venture inside… Next? It is way up high thanks to a great tip that came in in the Twitter stream (#PDRome). To the top of Il Vittoriano.

A monument known by a variety of names – Il Vittoriano or Altare della Patria (Altar of the Fatherland) and Monumento Nazionale a Vittorio Emanuele II (National Monument to Victor Emmanuel II). With the vast amount of buildings in Rome, and those that have been will know what I mean, you still cannot avoid seeing this huge marble monument rising up to the sky. Contrasting with the ancient browns around and below from Capitoline Hill.

The monument was built as a tribute to Victor Emmanuel II, the first King of a united Italy. Started in 1885 it was completed in 1911. Below in the centre of the monument is the tomb of the unknown soldier. This building of course is not without controversy. The white makes it grand and stand out from all around. However back when built something had to give way and that was some Roman ruins and medieval churches. That being said… The view from the very top is spectacular and absolutely a must see. I was so glad to get this early in the day view of Rome all around, from high in the centre. 360 degrees of history from all ages lays before you.

On a day like this I could see for miles and miles. Every rooftop, statue and ruin seemed to be within eyeshot. Vatican, Colosseum, The Forum and on and on. Rome has it all for sure. No matter how I wanted to stay and gaze it was time to find out where I was to be sent next? 🙂

Even on the way down I could not help looking up and around. The whole of the structure combined with the buildings immediately surrounding can leave a sense of awe in the mind. The senses were buzzing and camera on work overload. Down the steps, so much to see. Yes. Time for the next place.