Roma: Crypta Balbi and the Wedding Cake

As my sabbatical draws to a close, I am packing in the sights. Sort of a grand finale to our wonderful months of travel. The Canadian Club of Rome organizes tours and events for Canadians and I was happy to be able to attend one of their organized tours with Olivia that included the Crypta Balbi - the theme of the tour was 'feeding Rome: The Empire's Crumbs' about how the populace of Rome carried on after the decline of the Empire. Olivia was fabulous - if you have a chance, do one of her tours. She cheerfully entertained questions and answered with good humour and erudition. The museum of the Crypta Balbi (which Olivia explained in this case has to do with a 'dark place' and not a burial crypt) is nothing without a tour guide to illuminate and explain the layers of concrete, stone, dirt and brick. With a guide like Olivia, it really comes alive. I'll post a few photos so you get the idea.,