This morning, though, I woke up in Rome. Mass and Breakfast are always first.
Then I decided to go to St. Mary Major. Oh, Did I forget to mention that it was raining.
Because of the rain there were not as many people or cars out and even the Basilica was a bit quieter. One of the side chapels that is never open was very open and so I was able to go and see and pray at the tomb of St. Pius V.
Down in the crypt there is a large reliquary which contains a relic of the manger that Jesus was laid in when he was born.
Probably the most impressive thing in this basilica is the tomb of Bernini. Bernini was probably one of that ages most famous artists. He is responsible for much of the art and statuary in St.Peter Basilica. But there he is in St.Mary Major, just to the right of the main sanctuary, in the simplest tomb possible, just a step into the sanctuary.
Well, the rain got worse,and at one moment,getting out of a cab, I got drenched. It will then be a night spent inside. Iam almost finished packing. Tomorrow morning the Cab picks me up at 3;00 am and I will be heading to the airport.