opps, out of order...

Rome has been truly incredible: for each of the past three days everyone has
been returning to the hostel, stripping their shoes off and collapsing on their
beds in absolute exhaustion. Nonetheless, each morning we're refreshed and
rearing to go, knowing that the day ahead of us holds marvels and experiences
that will forever remain in our memories.
The highlights for me so far have been St Maria Maggiore, St John Lateran, St
Peters, Vittorio Emmanuelle, Bernini's St Teresa, the Pantheon, Caravaggio's
paintings, the Colosseum, Il Gesu's paintings, the statue of Laocoon and the
Sistine Chapel. Quite a long list but one which I seriously struggled to make:
it is near impossible to narrow down the number of sights we've seen into
favourites that fit the space of one sentence. The sheer creative genius behind
the creation of these wonders is what stands out the most for me; such works of
artistic brilliance provide a mere glimpse into these astonishing men that lived
so long ago. The word genius does not begin to do justice to these masterminds.
Today this was really put into perspective when we passed through the so-called
modern 'art' section of the Vatican Museum today. When put alongside the
creations of the Renaissance, contemporary art is reduced to what seems like the
work of toddlers. After being able to relate modern-day artists to these genii
of the past, your respect for such creative brilliance just grows and grows.
Along with all the sights, the culture and atmosphere of Rome is simply the
icing on the cake. The Italian language, the food and the very significance of
the city all combine to make you feel completely immersed.
All in the first week.
— Joel Bateman