Rome, Italy: Roman Forum

Matt and I spent a few hours strolling through the Roman Forum on our last morning in the Eternal City.

The Forum was once the center of life in Rome -- the political, commercial and social lifeblood of the city. It consisted of a plaza and marketplace where speeches and processions were held and was surrounded by important government buildings. From the heart of the Forum, infamous leaders such as Julius Caesar and Constantine the Great ruled the entire Roman Empire. Today, the ruins offer an incredible glimpse into their world. Many pieces of the Forum and its surrounding buildings remain, and many others have crumbled to the ground. Unlike other European cities that go to great lengths to preserve their historic buildings, Rome has allowed time to take its toll and age to tell its history. It is truly amazing to see.