There must be an amazing atmosphere in Italy today. You are so lucky to be so close to Rome. I hadn’t realised until today that the site of the Basilica and St Peter’s square is on the old site of the circus of Nero where many early Christians were executed including St Peter himself. The keyhole design goes back to Bernini in the 17th C & is symbolic in itself. What I found very interesting is the Egyptian obelisk, brought to Rome by Caligula, it used to stand at the centre of the circus of Nero and witnessed so much human cruelty. The square was designed like a giant sundial so that the surrounding columns are struck by the shadow of the obelisk at different times of day. I recall that there are plaques on the pavement where you can stand and see the columns converge. The symbolism of this site is quite powerful and the architecture extraordinary.
An extraordinary human who tried to lead by example. Every single day he phoned the Catholic church in Gaza to ask them what they had eaten that day and how they were.
It’s lovely to read how well-informed you are @AnnieS 
. I actually live in a very small town in the Campania region and apart from national TV live coverage, everything is just normal really, I suppose you have to go to the bigger towns and cities to feel the atmosphere. Our little town has Ancient Roman monuments, the Trajan Arch and the Roman theater.
Everyone says. Didn’t you not hear the news? He’s dead. How can he be “down to earth”?
Please note this is a forum for the over 50s, when taking part please do so respectfully and in good faith. Thank you.
OK. He’s not dead.
Since the ? Pope’s are not cremated.
Their image. Soul, History and Dedication lives on. In devotees ‘Living’ Memory.
In exactly the same way, as one would remember/recall, their own deceased Mother.