Natale di Roma - Sat 21 April
Our Imperium-Romana group represented New Zealand in the parade of the ancient Romans legions that marched around the Roman forum to celebrate the Foundation of Rome by Romulus in 753 BC. Jason Saunders represented our legion in the official torch lighting ceremony led by the Vestal Virgins from the sacred flame burning in their tripod. The parade included a greeting by the emperor Hadrian who thanked the legion for its service to Rome at the farthermost edge of the Empire, and we tossed incense on the flames of his altar as an acknowledgment of our fidelity. We have made great friends with many of the European Roman groups, and were treated to the famous Italian hospitality by our hosts.
The group went sightseeing in Rome, and drove to Naples, Pompeii, Florence, Nimes, and back again. We stayed in various accommodations overlooking the Colosseum or the Roman forum, which had amazing views.
We visited the Cinecitta movie studio to see the sets where the tv series ROME was filmed.
