Day 2 - Follow the Flamboyant (16th September 2014).
I am writing this blog entry having spent some excellent time with my host, Donato and the other guests. I have just eaten a couple of strange deep fried rice concoctions, which were alternatively really nice and quite peculiar.Today has been my Vatican based day. First;y, I visited St. Peter's Basilica and then I went off to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel.
St. Peter's Basilica was quite overwhelming. I found myself visually attracted to all of the symbols and surfaces within its beautiful exterior. The repeated symbol of a star and the numerous representations of various religious figures were awe-inspiring. The security presence prior to entering was equally fascinating, on account of its resemblance to airport security. Their cautious demeanour perhaps understandable in these times of political turmoil.
Always look up! St Peter's Basilica.
Overwhelming even for someone whose religious beliefs are confused.
Old and new.
One of many stars. For fun, play spot the stars in a church or graveyard.
The Vatican Museums were very busy and I was amused by the sneaky way the crowds are led around the interior of the space, so thus delaying their arrival at the Sistine Chapel. The Sistine Chapel was quite astounding, but in the crowds it felt like an evening at the cinema or a gig. Photos were prohibited on account of it being a 'holy place'. Note how the same restrictions did not apply in St. Peter's Basilica etc.
In the Vatican Museums (well, one of them).
Interesting to see so many different objects that have been gifted to the various Popes over the years. The swans were beautiful.
My later trip to the MAXXI (Museo Nazionale Delle Arti Del XXI Secolo) was far more engaging. I am a fan of contemporary art, so to see how different artists have toyed with different forms and constructed unique architectural feats was an eye opener. The style of the building was engaging too, through its use of ramps and unconventional spaces, formed in a circular fashion rather than in a more conventional gallery set-up. Using a layout such as this removes the need for 'canons' (those individual pieces of work that draw the attention of the majority of visitors) and democratise the act of art appreciation. Personal choice allows for a more fulfilling and experiential day at the gallery.
MAXXI.
Interior of the MAXXI.
Exterior of the MAXXI.
I returned to Romatic and chatted to Donato, prior to the arrival of his other guests.
A nice day and even nicer weather!
Barry Watt - 16th September 2014.
Afterword
'Follow the flamboyant' refers to the odd objects that the tour guides around the Vatican use to distinguish between each other. They can be as straightforward as a national flag or as unconventional as a fan.
BW
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