Let it Snow in Rome

When on Friday we looked out the window of the Pantheon Institute Office we were very surprised to see so many snowflakes falling: it was an unusual and amazing sight for us!!!

As you can guess, this weather was somehow unusual for Rome, that is usually blessed by a moderate climate. The Italian capital had not experienced the heavy snow falls for a long period of time, 1986 was reported to be the last heavy snowfall that has dropped in the city.
Our students had the opportunity to assist to a historic event on Friday—the first heavy snowfall in Rome in 24 years!!!

The snow caught Rome unprepared, as a matter of fact it caused some problems: some museums and historical sites, including Colosseum, were closed so as schools and public offices, cars without tire chains were ordered off the road, many houses were without electricity, thousands of people were trapped on trains throughout Italy.

Despite the many practical problems, the general delight of the citizens was palpable. People had snowball fights, snowboarded at the Circus Maximus, made snowmen in the piazzas and contemplated with renewed curiosity and appreciation the many ancient wonders of Rome under the snow.

Surely seeing a white and soft blanket covering the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, Spanish Steps, the Pantheon and Navona Square is a worthwhile experience, so our students are very lucky to be here in Rome now!!!