Profondo Argento + Castel Sant'Angelo

With the crucial Champions League match concluded, I chose to spend the following day traveling to some other essential sites within the Eternal city.

I anxiously hiked forth to the Profondo Rosso store, the classic Italian horror store, founded by film auteur, Dario Argento.

The gravity of this store for me can be overstated. Ever since I've been captivated by the wonders of Argento's pictures, I've always dreamt of making a pilgrimage to the famed store. It's something I've constantly hoped for and with this study abroad experience set motion; I accordingly put this endeavor to the highest of priorities.

After finding my way through the maze of the city center of Rome, I finally discovered, Profondo Rosso.

I ventured in to find everything exactly as I'd imagined. The store was filled with exquisite horror memorabilia, Argento related material, and all sorts of outrageous horror oddities. The store is run by the store owner, Luigi Cozzi, director of a handful of Italian exploitation films from the 1970s.

I ended up some grabbing some wicked Bava and Argento T-shirts, along with some Argento books, written by Cozzi himself.

Luigi Cozzi turned out to be exceptionally kind and quite friendly.

The other, more important reason for journeying such lengths to the store, was to experience the museum within Profondo Rosso.

The museum holds a gore-tastic array of props, costumes, and recreations from a variety of Argento films, all set within a dark, haunted setting.

 

 

As I descended, I became fully immersed in the spectacle of the museum's frightening offerings. It was incredible to wander through and observe the horrific wonders found within. The creatures from DEMONS, the murderous crows from OPERA, the demented child-killer from PHENOMENA, along with the towering templars from THE CHURCH, all taunted me as I explored the darkly-lit chambers.

 

 

It was an incredible to see these recreations in real life, having grown up watching these masterpieces on the silver screen.

After adventuring through the museum, I returned back to ground level. I spoke with Cozzi for a little bit about the store and film in general. He explained that he runs the store with his wife and would like to return to filmmaking, but the Italian film industry is practically non-existent now. He also spoke about how Argento is set to be making DRACULA, yet was only able to get funding due the concession that he would make it in 3D. Furthermore, all films in Italy currently in production are being made with a future in TV in mind. Meaning that all the themes, violence, and content must be reduced to accommodate what is acceptable on TV.

Although I'd heard about this unfortunate state prior, hearing it first hand was quite depressing. From the country that had produced masterclass filmmakers as Fellini, Argento, Fulci, and Bava, they have become quite lethargic.

I thanked Mr.Cozzi thoroughly for his time, and bid the Profondo Rosso Store a fond farewell.

After such a memorable experience with one of my most idealized sites, I continued forth towards the Castel Sant'Angelo.

 

Castel Sant'Angelo has a very striking history. Connected with Vatican City itself through a secret passageway, Castel Sant'Angelo was the stone fortress for numerous Pope when Rome sacked throughout its turbulent years.

Today, Castel Sant'Angelo is a quite a prominent figure in contemporary culture. It plays a central location in Puccini's TOSCA, Dan Brown's ANGELS AND DEMONS, and ASSASSIN'S CREED II.

Before actually arriving at the entrance of Castel Sant'Angelo, it is required to cross over the Tiber river. While traveling across the famed bridge of the castle, many dominating Angelic statues stood fearlessly, guarding their scared castle.

 

I soon entered in and began my ascent towards the top. Large pathways led towards the higher reaches of the fortress, such, so that if any forces were to storm the castle, the defenders would have a much easier task in picking off the opposing storm.

I also observed a perfect Ezio climbing point:

Along with a fascinating, unfinished Angelic statue:

I eventually reached the highest platform of the castle and looked out into the vast vista of the Roman landscape.

 

Monumental sites as Vittorio Emanuele and Vatican City stood beautifully in site, with the Tiber River streaming through the cityscape. While not as awe-inspiring as the Tuscan landscape or Swiss Alps, the Roman view still provides a snapshot full of history and wondrous relevance.
 

Before leaving, I observed the most famous object in all of Castel Sant'Angelo and the reason for its name. Legend has it, the arch Angel Michael appeared atop of the castle in 590, signaling the end of the disastrous plague.

Subsequently, I leisurely took the afternoon train back to Florence. It was actually refreshing, being able to travel without fighting against time for once.

After visiting three very different sides of the Roman spectrum over the past two days, I've gathered that the divergence apparent within Rome is quite riveting. Simply, if your just a fan of life, Rome is a place you'll rather enjoy.

A Very Roman Champions League

While I have many indulgences, whether it be films, books, or video games, one of my other passions lie in the world of Football. Watching the clubs, leagues, along with the spectacle of international play is something I find utterly absorbing and thoroughly thrilling.

With A.S. Roma, a top tier Italian club, playing against my personal favorite, Bayern Munich, in the world's most prestigious tournament, the Champions League, I immediately knew this was an opportunity I couldn't afford to miss without painfully regretting it.

To be able to watch my favorite team, along with the ability to attend one of wickedest tournaments was something I'd only dream out.

I booked my tickets a month in advanced and anticipated the showcase event. I followed the development of the players, trying to figure players would be available to play. It turned out key players such as Robben and Schweinsteiger were unavailable to play. Oh well, at least many other exciting players would still able to play, including a return for the majestic Francesco Totti and French winger, Frank Ribery.

As November 23rd arrived, I jetted straight to the train station after class dismissed. I took the first ride to Rome and arrived well in advanced for the football match.

I checked into my hotel and began to march forth towards the most cherished stadium in all of Italia, the Stadio Olimpico.

As I tried to figure the best possible method to arrive at the stadium, I soon found it much easier to follow the many Roma fans also hiking to the stadium. Oddly enough, they hopped onto a bus which had many Bayern Munich supporters chanting in the back. The German banter, along with the Italian response was a unique experience. I doubt the Italians knew what their enemies were saying, along with the Germans having no clue to what vulgar responses the Italian threw in return. It turned out be quite a eventful bus ride.

Soon, as the bus inched closer the stadium, the roads became ridiculously congested, filled with numerous cars, buses, and countless supporters from both sides. When we arrived at our stop, just outside the stadium, the entire bus exited with much haste.

As I observed the Stadio Olimpico from the exterior, I could only imagine the excitement and pure bliss that the stadium held within.

As I made my way to the entrance, I noticed all the Bayern Munich fans being escorted by a police patrol to their side of the stadium. The Roma ultra (the most violent breed of Roma fans) are considered the most violent supporters in the world and have been numerously lambasted for their excessive violence towards opposing supporters. This escort was mandatory for any German traveling to the game.

I scanned my cherished ticket in the metallic bar code scanner and was green-lighted for admittance.

As I passed the first check point, I was immediately stopped by a wall of security personnel.

They were checking people's bags. I had a water bottle that I was forced to discard. Too bad because I actually liked that bottle, It was the sports type one. :(

Moving forth, I was presented with a plethora of football merchandising stands, selling an array of football gear. I picked up a rather awesome scarf that detailed the place, teams, and time the forthcoming game was taking place in. Very personalized and specific for this game.

I finally came to the stadium. Finding my section in the stadium, I began to climb the steps to the enter the famed arena. As I reached my section and stepped out, I was floored by overwhelming landscape before me.

The Stadio Olimpico was gigantic, expansive, and full of life. The Roma-ultra were roaring, chanting, and pumping the stadium with excitement. Across in the corner, were the Munich supporters, isolated from everyone else. They too were chanting, trying to drown out the overwhelming clamor from the Roma supporters. It wasn't working.

As I found my specific seat, I spent the next 10 minutes taking in the breathtaking atmosphere of the forthcoming game. It was full of excitement, adrenaline, and joyous anticipation.

Many sponsors were on display, including SONY with their PS3 line:

I also sipped on a Cola Red Bull as I anticipated the colossal clash:

Soon the timer ticked down, and with it, the two decorated teams entered onto the pitch. Many of the great players were on hand, warming up. Players like Totti, Lahm, De Rossi, and were Muller were all going to perform before my very eyes. The feeling was surreal.

The importance of this game was paramount for Roma. To put it in perspective, if Roma were to lose this match, they would be out of the entire tournament. Bayern Munich have already advanced, so for them, winning is only a matter of pride.

While Bayern Munich is my number one side, I chose to support Roma in this particular match for a couple of reasons. One, I was in Rome's home stadium, everyone around me had such enthusiasm for their home team I felt somewhat inspired. And also, Roma needs this win much more than Munich.

The players lined up once more, this time for the classic Champions League anthem:

And as the whistle soon blew, the game officially commenced.

The first half was ridiculously disappointing for Roma. Awesome skill, movement, and vision was apparent in the Munich side, but with nothing to been seen from the Giallorossi. Munich dominated as if they it was they're playing on home turf.

By the time the first half came to a close, Munich were up by 2 goals from Mario Gomez, silencing the Stadio Olimpico. As everybody took their breaks, a variety of condescending comments and responses rightfully flew from the Roma supporters. AS Roma had everything to play for, yet it seemed as if they just weren't interested.

As the second half whistle blew, the Roma supporters anticipated a positive response to the ridiculous poor first half.

With furious might, vigor, and passion that would inspire a country, Roma fought back, tooth and nail to climb 2-2 against Munich. It was spectacular work from Borriello, De Rossi, Vucinic, and Menez. Wondrous coordination with beautiful teamwork helped lift Roma from their depressing state.

The Roma supporters were roaring with enthusiasm and excitement, for their team had literally changed the landscape of the game. During the course of the second half, the pinnacle of Roman football, Francesco Totti was subbed into the enthralling game.

Oddly enough, a Munich supporter was randomly seen observing from the Roman side.

She received much ill attention from the Roma supporters, but she didn't seem to take much heed.

As the game entered into the final minutes, the stadium grew in reluctant anticipation. Roma needed one more goal, but with little time left, would it be possible?

Vucinic sped down left wing, skipped passed his opponent and furiously maneuvered towards the goal. At the crucial moment, Thomas Kraft slid in and had both Vucinic and the ball cut out. The referee blew the whistle and awarded Roma with a penalty!

The unanimous roar of utter bliss and relief echoed throughout the stadium. This was Roma's moment. It was now, or never.

Il captiano, Francesco Totti stepped up to take the nerve-wracking penalty. I cannot emphasize enough how nervous, scared, and utterly absorbed by the game we all were at this point.

This was it, it all came down to this.

Here's the madness, as it unfolded:

Champions League Penalty

I found myself high-fiving random supporters I didn't knew as I screamed in unison with the deafening howls of joyous wonder, excitement, and pure exuberation.

The game continued on this high octane pace to the final whistle, which afterwards, the entire stadium tore the house down with endless reverberation of true happiness.

Although they looked utterly defeated by the end of the first half, A.S. Roma had shined in the latter half. This is the power of supporting and truly believing against such incalculable odds.

A.S. Roma had done it, we had done...

As I left with my Roman brethren from the stadium, a touching sense of companionship became apparent. Many supporters were buying the scarf I'd purchased earlier, in order to remember the cherished experience. Interestingly enough, the vendors had doubled the price after the colossal win. Great marketing work...

As I boarded the bus packed with my fellow Roma fans chanting, singing, and relishing in the joyous moment, I took some time to reflect on what I had experienced. While this Champions League game was not my first football match (thanks Liverpool!), the significance and importance of this particular game is unparalleled.

Being able to live the exhilarating experience of such a beautiful comeback with the home supporters, is something that can never be replicated. It's one thing enjoying a game thousands of miles away on a HD screen, but an entirely affair, actually living the experience. This adventure I will recollect as I watch future football matches and reminiscent on how thrilling and unifying the football experience can be.

This night was another sublime episode in the adventures of my ever-wondrous European voyage.

The Eternal City

Today was going to consist of exploring the deep Eternal City.

Bright and early, we headed to our first sight, The Fountain of Four Rivers.

Located in Piazza Navona and designed by Bernini, The Fountain of the Four Rivers represents the four major rivers of the known world. The rivers represented are the Nile, Ganges, Danube, and Plate.

The personification of the rivers into Water Gods is incredibly fantastical. 

Located behind the Fountain of the Four Rivers, is the Sant'Agnese in Agone. This grand church was designed by Bernini's rival, Borromini. And today, both of their works stand side-by-side.

I ventured into the church and found it to incredibly well-defined.

After Piazza Navona, we ventured forth to the timeless, Pantheon.

Under construction, if you didn't notice... 

Originally designed for sacrifices to Pagan Gods, the Pantheon was converted into a Church after Christianity took center stage.

At one point, it was said that the entire exterior of the Pantheon was coated in Bronze. Imagine how that would have looked!


Although much construction was taking place on the exterior, it didn't stop the colossal structure from making a striking impression. 

When I entered into the interior, the jaw-dropping design of the dome utterly dwarfed me.

Its complex precision and ambitious design is so encompassing. 

The Pantheon ranks as one of the finest monuments I've ever seen. It represents a fascinating period in Roman History and is indescribable upon experiencing it firsthand.

Oh, and a key mission in Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood takes place in the classical structure. Which, let's face it, is the most important reason for visiting The Pantheon.

We continued our exploration further into the deep city, and soon found ourselves in front of one the most famous monuments in all of Italy, The Trevi Fountain.

The grand scale of the Trevi Fountain is awe-inspiring. 

You have Neptune mightily striding forward with numerous nymphs, leviathans, and sea-creatures surrounding his encompassing chariot.

I appreciate the fact that fountain doesn't hold back its scope. It's a vast fountain that pulsates with awesome atmosphere, sheer scale, and captures the Sea God perfectly.

The opening of the 2010 video game, God of War III has you battling against Leviathans and the legendary Poseidon in a spectacular first act. Experiencing the Trevi Fountain brought such visceral moments from the epic video game to life.

Keeping up the steady pace, we continued towards the Spanish Steps.

Famous for its supposedly creative design, The Spanish Steps is named in honor of the Spanish Embassy, located just across from the Steps.

I would have to say that the Spanish Steps were the most disappointing aspect of the entire venture. I mean it was just steps and more steps.

While the design is unique, it's nothing spectacular and definitely not world-class.

The view from atop was enjoyable, though.

After descending the steps, we began our trek towards our last major monument.

Walking through the narrow streets, some recognizable names surfaced.

We finally reached the TOWERING Vittorio Emanuele monument.

Famous for unifying Italy during the 1800s, Vittorio Emanuele II is a key figure in the development of the Italy we know today. This monument represents his achievements, affects, and resounding impact on modern Italy.

At the base of Emanuele's statue, female figures are sculpted into the marble. Each woman represents a certain Italian city. They hold a certain object relevant to the chosen city. For example, the lady representing Florence holds books and a paintbrush, personifying the arts.

Many other dominating statues stood mightily throughout the monument. Each representing a symbolic representation of either War, Freedom, or National Pride.

Two mighty chariots gallantly guarded the highest reaches of the structure:

The view from atop was quite noteworthy:

The walk through Rome was extraordinary. We visited numerous sites, each symbolizing an important part of Rome's endlessly intriguing history. From Ancient Rome to Renaissance Italy, to the Civil War, Rome history is the city.

After enjoying an authentic Roman lunch, we had a few more destinations to travel to before departing.

The first was the Roman Catacombs:

These catacombs were revolutionary for their time. Only the elite class would have the luxury of getting a burial. Yet, as Christianity took dominance in Rome, many Christians wished to be buried alongside the many martyrs of their faith. Soon, whole catacombs were built in order to house the many bodies.

Wandering through the ancient passageways reminded me very much of The Mummy. I felt any second Brenden Fraser would come, blasting his way through hordes of nefarious mummified Egyptians. Unfortunately, it never happened. :(

While our path was firmly set, they were many turns, bends, and endless paths that you could lose yourselves in. I don't even want to think about what would happen if I did stray off the beaten path.

Small niches had been carved out for little children, with whole rooms dedicated to families. I picked up an ancient stone along the way. Wait a second, I can't even remember where I put it now and it's not like I can exactly distinguish if I was to see it again. Oh well...

After getting my Indiana Jones on, we resurfaced to ground level and entered back into reality.

Our final visit was traveling to the second most important church in Rome, Saint Paul's Basilica.

This scared sight is the burial ground for Saint Paul.

The vast and open spaces throughout the church were quite surprising. Many churches decorate the interior was endless amounts of artifacts, symbols, or paintings. But with Saint Paul's Basilica, everything seemed a little more natural, especially with the pleasant garden in front of the Basilica.

The interior was quite expansive:

The actual burial site:

After fully observing the surroundings, the time had arrived to board the bus once more. This time to return to Florence.

Rome is vast and encompassing city. It is the embodiment of everything exquisite about Italy. Revolutionary art, colossal monuments, enthralling history, all wrapped in the Italian experience.