roaming-through-time

[roaming-through-time]

Well friends,

The last post was my finale destination for this trip, I am now headed back home where it is the 21st century. I can definitely say this was a one-of-kind trip that I will never forget. I am so lucky I was able to share this experience with you and hopefully you guys were able to enjoy it as much as I did sharing it. Until next time... bye!!

#UntilWeMeetAgain #TimeTravelerAtHeart #RoamingThroughRome #HIS101 #FinalProject

[roaming-through-time]

Hello gladiators!

My last stop for this trip is a recommended spot from a local. I was not sure what I was in stored for, but I went in with excitement and an open mind! I will admit it was kind of far from what I was originally used to, but I am stilled very intrigued. Once I got here, I could feel a change in the air. The surroundings shift from the busy Roman towns to a wilder place. I saw a very long fence/wall that was made out of made of stone and turf which was cutting through the rough land. While visiting I heard sounds of military drills and the clatter of construction. I saw soldiers marching, with their footsteps creating a steady beat. They were wearing armor and carrying short swords and javelins, while walking along the wall. I also saw that there are forts and watchtowers all around the wall where soldiers worked and kept a lookout. I did notice the ditches in front of the wall which was often dug to provide an additional obstacle for potential invaders. There were Leaders giving orders to soldiers who do different jobs. Going past the forts there were small towns such as bakeries which filled the air with the smell of fresh bread, and there were blacksmiths are busy making and fixing weapons. I got to see people, both Roman and local, busy trading goods. I could also hear different languages and customs mixing together. Of course, it would be a mix of Romans and Britons. I wasn’t sure what or why this wall was important until I asked a friendly local. The local described to me that this was called Hadrian's Wall which stretches for 73 miles. They told me Emperor Hadrian built it, primarily for defensive purposes but visiting it and seeing it be used for more than that was very rewarding! I am not going to lie, the walking got me tired, but the view is absolutely amazing definitely worth it. I can see the countryside all around. The wall isn't just a barrier, I see it as a sign of Roman power in a land that still holds onto its own spirit.

#FeelingSafe #GotMyStepsIn #TimeTravelerAtHeart #RoamingThroughRome #HIS101 #FinalProject

[roaming-through-time]

Guess what friends!

As I was leaving the thermae, I was walking to my finale destination, when I noticed something. Suddenly I see everyone at home, schools, and business around me are closed. As I walk by houses, I see people decorate their homes with wreaths and other greenery. Temples and public buildings are adorned with wreaths, ribbons, and flickering candles, creating a festive glow that illuminates the city. Even statues of stoic figures wear festive garments, and the architecture itself appears to dance in celebration. The air is filled with the smell of spiced wines and roasting meats, leading me toward the bustling heart of the celebration. The streets are alive with colors and energy. I had no idea why people were celebrating so I asked a local and apparently today was Saturnalia which was a festival dedicated to the Saturn who was a Roman god of agriculture and time. The local mentioned that it was a time of merrymaking, feasting, and revelry. I also found out this meant that there was a temporary suspension of social norms and hierarchies, which means masters and slaves would temporarily switching roles. Which I found so interesting and surprising if I am being quite honest!! As I kept walking, I did indeed see people feasting on delicious food and I saw friends and families exchanging small gifts, tokens of appreciation. Some locals were even nice enough to give me a plate. The plate consisted of roasted pork, sweet honeyed pastries, and a delightful mix of nuts, dried fruits, and cheeses. Walking further all I could hear were laughter and cheerful chatter resonate through the crowded alleys as musicians play festive tunes on lyres and flutes at street corners, setting the stage for a joyous celebration. It really lit up the faces of friends and families engaged in these festive activities. This was very nice to see the community come together as one. Even though I couldn’t stay for long since this was just a quick pass through to my next destination, I am glad I was able to witness it. Now onto my last and finale spot of this time travel experience! Stay tuned!

#SoMuchFun #CelebrationTime #TimeTravelerAtHeart #RoamingThroughRome #HIS101 #FinalProject

[roaming-through-time]

Hello friends I am back with a little update!

Since I last posted, I had just attended one of my first ever Gladiators fight in the colosseum. After leaving the Colosseum I needed a break. Amidst the bustling streets of ancient Rome, I stumbled upon a bath house or as they would call it here, thermae. Which is a complex of rooms designed for public bathing and relaxation. Which was very helpful because I smelled like death and trash after sitting and being surrounded by many people in the arena. Eager to cleanse my body, I entered the thermae. The air within the bathhouse was infused with a subtle smell of essential oils, and unlucky for me metallic tang of blood that still lingered in my nostrils from the Colosseum. But pushing through that, I walked further, and I saw plethora of people from all and every social class, of course in here, men and women were separated. My eyes first catch the changing room and how the walls had a mosaic design that tells stories. It feels like I'm walking through a gallery of narratives, each stroke and detail a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Roman culture. The architecture of the thermae is incredible itself. Vaulted ceilings stretch above me, and large windows that provided natural light. The spacious halls make every step feel like a journey through a place designed not just for bathing but as a visual of Roman culture. Water is also everywhere, the place felt alive. Fountains splash and the sound of flowing water adds to the soothing vibe. It's more than just a bath; it's an experience with water as a companion. There are even different rooms with different temperature for everyone’s and anyone’s liking. For example, there is the frigidarium room which is a cold plunge pool to help bathers gradually adjust to lower temperatures. Then there is the warm room or tepidarium where there is a moderately warm pool, providing an intermediate stage between the cold and hot baths. Lastly the caldarium room which was the room that contained a hot water bath or a steam room. There were also gardens and courtyards for outdoor relaxation, offering a contrast to the heated interior rooms. As I bath, all I could hear is the women gossip and talk about the gladiators fight outcome. Which I enjoyed listening to! This was such a relaxing spot, and I am grateful I was able to experience it. Can't wait to see what I stumble upon next!

#NiceAndClean #FilledWithEnjoyment #TimeTravelerAtHeart #RoamingThroughRome #HIS101 #FinalProject

[roaming-through-time]

Good day friends! Or as the native romans here like to say… Salve!

I am not sure how many of you remember my last post, but I was standing outside the Colosseum not able to get in. Now thinking about, I understand why the local had warned me not to go in, because I was not dressed as a wealthy woman or those of the higher social status. Since then, I came up with an idea to get disguise as an elite woman. I will be in full incognito since they won’t be able to notice that I don’t belong here! To be clear, I am dressing up an elite woman since it is in the higher level and I feel like it with enough layers I can pull it off….hopefully. I got help from a local woman here who is always at home taking care of her children and providing for her husband always, since that is what the norm here is. She kindly provided me with these clothes and tips. I started by first putting on a long and elegant stola, its rich colors reflecting my “elevated status.” Also draping a palla over my left shoulder which adds an extra touch of grace. Underneath, a knee-length tunica provides a simple yet foundational layer. I aIso made sure to wear jewelry made of from scrap metals I could find. The local kind women also provided me with sandals and gave me a crafted hairstyle, adorned with pins and a subtle veil. With each garment in place, I stand ready to embody the world of an elite Roman woman!

Heading to the Colosseum, I knew I was close because the smell of dust, sweat and death come back to me. As I enter through the massive archways, I followed the other elite women and went to a special section in the amphitheater known as the cavea/ seating area. In the big arena, the gladiators stepped out, looking tough and sweaty. The crowd went wild, shouting and cheering. The ground was covered in sand. The gladiators, ready for a fight, eyed each other with determination. When the battle started, you could hear the clang of weapons, it was loud and exciting. The gladiators moved fast, showing off their skills. The people watching couldn't take their eyes off the fight and they were on the edge of their seats. Some called out the names of their favored gladiators, passionately endorsing their chosen champions. Cheers of encouragement and exuberant applause filled the air as the crowd became emotionally invested in the unfolding spectacle. The gladiators were like a mix of strong and quick, dodging and attacking. The sounds of swords hitting shields and the occasional triumphant yell echoed in the air. The fighters were wearing shiny armor that sparkled in the sun, making them look even more impressive. Unfortunately, it got to a point where it was too disturbing and gruesome that I almost threw up. The fighters fought for their lives, and watching the intense scene, depicting human struggle and sacrifice so vividly, was very tough to witness in person. I knew it was time to go somewhere else.

#OnToTheNext #SadAndScared #TimeTravelerAtHeart #RoamingThroughRome #HIS101 #FinalProject

[roaming-through-time]

Hi friends!!

I made it here, in the heart of ancient Rome! I find myself standing in the shadow of the Colosseum, the site I wanted to go to first! The Colosseum was a powerful symbol of how skilled the Romans were at building impressive structures and showcasing their strength and authority. It demonstrated their engineering capabilities and reflected the grandeur of the Roman Empire. Which was why I really wanted to come here. I stood out here for a while admiring the oval shape and different kinds of columns on the outside which can I say is such a beautifully created structure. They started the construction during AD 72 and was completed by a successor Titus in AD 80. Unfortunately, a few minutes after I got here, a local had warned me not to go inside since I was a female, and I was not allowed to go in. I saw the guards and got scared that it could come with some serious consequences, so I stepped away. Although, one thing I did notice the smell of dust, sweat, death and the scent of exotic animals brought for hunts. The reason why I smell this is because the events that usually took place here. The colosseum was used for events such as gladiatorial contest/fights and animal hunts. I couldn’t hear much though, it sounded like they were just starting to set up for an event. Outside, I was surrounded by a crowd, a mix of nobles and commoners. Nobles, draped in luxurious fabrics, pass by with an air of elegance, engaging in lively conversations. Then we have the Commoners, whose attire is more practical. The atmosphere is charged with anticipation, each person drawn to this iconic structure for their own reasons, but I think they were getting ready to head inside to see skilled fighters engaged in combat, often to the death, as a form of entertainment. I wish I was able to go inside and see for myself. I have an idea….stay tuned for my next post!

#WishMeLuck #WaitAndSee #TimeTravelerAtHeart #RoamingThroughRome #HIS101 #FinalProject

[roaming-through-time]

Get Ready!

Hello friends,

Exciting news – I'm getting ready for a time-travel experience, and guess where I'm headed? Straight to the heart of Ancient Rome! I am going on a journey back to a time of togas, epic battles, and some seriously impressive architecture. I created this page just to share my experience as I stroll through the ancient streets, soaking in the vibes of the bustling markets, gazing at the Colosseum, and maybe even catching a glimpse of some gladiator fights! I can't wait to explore the wonders of a this interesting but beautiful era, and I can't wait to help you also experience it one Tumblr post at a time. Get ready to dive into history, not with textbooks, but with just Tumblr scrolls.

Before this trip, I made sure to visit one very popular site that was created during Ancient Rome. We are almost there; I will check in back once we get there!

#TimeTravelerAtHeart #RoamingThroughRome #HIS101 #FinalProject