We started our day in Rome with a visit to Castel Saint Angelo, which was one of my favorites so far. Once you buy your ticket and enter, you get to roam around the huge castle and fortress. At one time this was turned in to the stronghold for the Popes in case of a siege on the Vatican. The views of the city from the top really are stunning.

After that we headed to St. Peter’s Square to take in the sights. We just sat there for a couple hours resting and enjoying, it’s a really really impressive sight to see! Running the half mile gauntlet of hawkers, scammers, and pick pockets was completely worth it.

We packed up and “took a left at Albuquerque”, hopped on the train, and headed a few hours south towards Naples. Our friends Heather and Rich are stationed down here for a couple years, so we’re staying at their house overlooking the Mediterranean. Think we all may take a road trip to Tuscany for the weekend, since they’ve never been there either. Went to their local watering hole last night with great food and excellent wine. Ugh… I’m in need of a strong coffee and some tylenol this morning! 🙂

Bridge to the Castle:

Passage way inside the castle:

Salacious artwork in Pope John III bedroom. Wish I had better pics, but no flash allowed. His bedroom was covered in some pretty bawdy paintings for the time:

Papal Escape Route: Before the pope-mobile was invented, the Vatican built this elevated walkway from the castle to the Vatican. Incase of an attack, the pope could run along this to the safety of the fortress.

View from the Castle roof, overlooking St. Peter’s Square:

St. Peter’s Square is massive! And yes, we’re drinking beers we bought there. You’ll want one too after being hounded by all the aggressive hawkers on the way there. 🙂

Heather on a funny barstool, with proprietor Pascaule behind the bar:

Shawn and Rich enjoying cigars and good wine:

Group at Stappos Wine Bar near Naples:

We’re so hungover this morning, but the view from our bedroom makes us forget about it: That’s Procida Island in the distance.