After the excitement from the night before, we returned to the Pantheon first thing on the third morning.

Well, first thing is relative. The Groenewalds are early risers. An admirable trait, I tell you. Kayla and I, though, *are not* early risers. In fact, we’re some of the grumpiest morning people you’ll ever meet. Nobody wants that. 🙂 Luckily, we walk fast.

So. The Groenewalds had an early start and headed out before we even got out of bed. I’d show you what they got up to in that time, but sadly, we’ve somehow lost their photos. So, you’ll have to take my word for it that they had breakfast and strolled Rome’s streets.

We met them at the foot of the Pantheon to see the inside of that incredible building. I was swallowing back tears for most of this visit. 🙂 Folks, if you ever find yourself in Rome, visit this place. You won’t be disappointed.

After that, we headed to the Castel San’tAngelo, or Hadrian’s Mausoleum, which is a massive, round structure on the bank of the Tiber. At first, we thought this was a castle. I’ve since learned that it isn’t. Oops. 😛 This place is impressive in its own right, though I must admit it was one of my least favourite locations during our visit. Can I just say that Gemma was the stair master of the day – she took those steps at warp speed.

Next stop was the Vatican. As with the Colosseum, we didn’t go inside because of the crowds. I was torn about this place, because the only thing I really wanted to see was the roof of the Sistine Chapel. I’m honestly not drawn to the Vatican in any way, and please don’t crucify me for admitting this, but seeing all the riches accumulated by the church while poverty exists makes me feel icky. And the Vatican is the ultimate display of these riches.

But, before you hurl something at your screen in rage, please have a look at the pics. 🙂

Thanks for stopping by! Hope you have an awesome weekend and see you again on Monday.

Yolandie