Exploring Pasteum & Velia

On day 2, Dec.29th we visited Pasteum, a city originally home to the Greeks which they named Poseidonia, but was later conquered by the Lucanians and later by the Romans. Lucanians renamed it Paistos and Romans ultimately renamed it what it is known as today. We saw beautiful, illustrious temples built by the Greeks, including the Temple of Athena (1st two photos) and Temple of Hera-also known as Neptune(following 2 photo). In between the two temples were ruins (last photo)from the Romans. Naturally, you can see the influence the founders of Pasteum had on the ruins, very interesting how they not only took over their land but also bit their style in crafting. Hate!

Later in the day we visited Velia where we saw the notable Porta Rosa (Pink Gate). The Porta Rosa road was a BEAST to walk up due to it being a bit uphill and we were walking on thick bricks. Far more rigorous than that hike up Bascom my UW folks know all to well. In addition we saw ruins from Velia made from colorful bricks and stones.

Throughout the entire day I believe we walked about 10 miles. Woo! But without a doubt,  our expedition was worth every step!

What In The World Am I Doing In Italy

Have you ever just sat down and reflected upon your life and all of the things you experienced and accomplished? Ever examine the struggles you've endured and surroundings you come from?  Many times right? I thought as much. That's something I analyze excessively. Given who I am and the world we live in, the life I live and the "problems" I have- it is all a privilege to possess. I love going home, south side Chicago at every chance I can. Not only because I have family and friends there that I love being around but also to be reminded of my stomping grounds and be inspired to reach my pinnacle and beyond. For some reason, when I reflect upon where I am I think of where I'm from.

Right now it's 5am and I'm sitting on the edge of my bed blogging on my phone in Italy. Freaking Italy! Castellammare to be specific.  A place which before now I only learned about via television and textbooks. Now I'm speaking, walking, eating and drinking the culture. Literally. Yesterday, as I sipped red wine our server placed my dinner, fine pasta Alfredo with baked chicken and sautéed vegetables on the table I said "grazie" to show a little gratitude and flex one of four words I know in Italian. Also, before dinner I roamed the narrow streets of Castellammare- taste the air (not as good as the pasta btw) and listened to fireworks while constantly being on guard to avoid being hit by petit cars for they don't view "stop" or "yield for pedestrians" signs as a necessity here. I would've stopped by the gelateria to get some gelato (ice cream) but I haven't converted my dollars yet. Bummer. Maybe tomorrow. 

We'll that's all I have for the half day I've spent in Castellammare thus far. Got a field trip to embark on in a few hours so i'd better get some rest. It's still so surreal being here. I'll be sure to post at least once or twice a week.

Ps, hit me up on fb or twitter if you want to give me a holler.

Ciao!