Students of Latin and Classical Civilisation from Years 10 to 13 enjoyed four days of sightseeing and exploration in Rome during the February half-term.

The first day involved an extensive and fascinating evening walking tour of the city. They watched the sun set behind St Peter’s Basilica, and marvelled at the spectacular Pantheon, Trevi Fountain and Piazza Navona lit up.

On day two they visited the Ara Pacis (Altar of Peace) and had great fun trying to recreate the frieze!

After lunch at the Spanish Steps, they explored the Vatican. They spent time in the Grottos and climbed the Dome of the Basilica (a gruelling 551 steps), before a whistle stop tour of the Vatican Museum that included many of the sculptures and pots that feature on the GCSE and A Level Classical Civilisation courses. In the evening they enjoyed sampling over 20 different flavours of ice cream at one of Rome’s irresistible gelaterias.

Day three began with an early trip to the Colosseum, followed by a visit to the Roman Forum – highlights included the Senate House, the Temple and House of the Vestal Virgins, and the Arch of Titus. Then they walked up to the House of Augustus on the Palatine Hill and enjoyed breathtaking views over the ancient forum. There was, inevitably, more delicious ice cream in the evening.

On the final day of the trip, the group travelled out to Ostia, a fantastically well preserved Roman sea port, and had the opportunity to see ancient blocks of flats, temples, schools, restaurants and houses much as they would have appeared over two thousand years ago. They flew home exhausted but thoroughly inspired.