Thursday, October 29, 2015

The Pope Is Calling Your Name

If this will be your first trip to Rome, visiting Vatican City is more than likely a must see prerequisite. Home to approximately 920 full-time residents and 3,000 workers, the Vatican City is the smallest recognized country in the world. 

St. Peter’s Basilica



According to many, St. Peter’s Basilica is said to be the largest church in the world.  Designed by Donato Bramante, Michelangelo, Carlo Maderno, and Gian Lorenzo Bernini, this work of art is the most renowned work of Renaissance architecture as its dome dominates the Roman skyline. Construction of the current basilica was finished in November 1626, replacing the Old St. Peter’s Basilica of 4th century AD. Pertinent to its name, it is the burial site of its titular, St. Peter, who was the head of the twelve Apostles of Jesus. Upon arrival to the historic church, you will encounter a multitude of architectural masterpieces; Maderno’s Façade, the Narthex and portals, and Maderno’s nave.


Museums
The museums situated within the Vatican City display works of art from the vast collection built by Popes throughout the centuries. Included are some of the most renowned classical sculptures and masterpieces of Renaissance art in the world. The museums you can explore are:

       Pinacoteca Vaticana – home to some of the most famous paintings in the world
       Collection of Modern Religious Art - houses paintings and sculptures from historic artists
       Museo Pio-Clementio - home to works of Greek and Roman sculptures
       Museo Gregoriano Etrusco - home to pieces found during archaeological excavations
       Museo Gregoriano Egiziano - where you can find a grand collection of Ancient Egyptian Material
       Vatican Historical Museum - where visitors can see the collection of portraits of the Popes, memorable items of the Papal Military, and past Popemobiles


The Vatican City, home to the Catholic Church, is one of the most breathtaking sites in the world, so do yourself a favor and take in its beauty. 

Thursday, October 22, 2015

When The Colosseum Falls, Rome Will Fall; But When Rome Falls, The World Will End

When the possibility of traveling to Rome arises, many sights and attractions come to mind - the first of which
for many is the historic Colosseum. This amphitheater is most famously known for hosting gladiator games, where combatants would entertain audiences in violent confrontations with other gladiators, wild animals, and condemned criminals. Another prominent event was the animal hunt, or venatio. This genre of entertainment was often elaborately staged and involved the hunting and killing of wild animals imported from the Middle East and Africa. Though the colosseum has a bloody history, less gruesome events occurred such as simulated sea battles, recreations of natural scenes, and reenacted mythological legends.

Completed in 80 A.D., Rome’s most renowned classical ruin, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, is considered one of the greatest works of architecture and engineering of all time.  Constructed from brick and concrete, the exteriors were faced in travertine held together by 300 tons of iron clamps, and the interiors in marble. The 'cavea' (spectator) bleachers were set on three different levels: the 'podium' with the imperial box, reserved for the nobles; the 'ordine del mezzo', for Roman citizens and people of a certain standing; and the 'summa,' for the rest of the populous.


Though restorative projects have taken place over the centuries since its construction, the site’s first full cleaning and repair is underway. The public-private partnership between Diego Della Valle and local officials is set to clean and restore the Colosseum’s arcaded façade as well as replace the metal enclosures that block the ground-level arches. Furthermore, the €25 million restoration project aims to create a services center and restore the galleries and underground spaces inside the Colosseum.


Whether you have an itch for the deep-rooted mythological history, an eye for architectural design, or a simple curiosity, this historic ruin is one attraction you do not want to miss.

Thursday, October 15, 2015

Annual Elite Advisors Meeting: Rome, Italy 2016

We believe our advisors deserve the best, and we at Table Bay Financial want to whisk our top advisors to the striking city of Rome.

At this annual meeting for our top qualifying advisors, you and a guest can experience the history, excitement, and the beauty of Rome, Italy. Attendees will have the chance to visit some of the world’s most historic landmarks,  embark on a culinary journey available only in this enchanting city, and stay in first class accommodations all while receiving exclusive training from America’s Premier FMO.

As one of the most historic sites in the world, Rome is a city rich with culture, blessed with extraordinary landmarks such as the Colosseum and Pantheon, and a world-class culinary experience. This once in a lifetime opportunity gives you and a guest the opportunity to experience the Eternal City, and immerse yourself in Rome’s prosperous culture.

The Table Bay Elite Advisors Meeting awards the top qualifying advisors, and those advisors will be invited to join Table Bay in the Summer of 2016. We look forward to celebrating the rewards of your 2015 success in the Eternal City of Rome!