Ask Locals in Rome!

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antja · #Mosaics

Ancient Mosaics?

Basilica di Sant'Agnese fuori le mura

I'm heading to the Basilica di Sant'Agnese fuori le mura next week. I've heard so much about its incredible mosaics, particularly those in the lower basilica—they're supposedly some of the best-prese… more

Reply 2 Share · 3w

johannafritsche · 3w

An hour, maybe an hour and a half, should be plenty to really soak in the mosaics in the lower basilica. Don't get me wrong, they're stunning, but it's not like the Sistine Chapel – you can appreciate the detail without needing to spend ages on each individual tile. Just wander slowly, let the atmosphere sink in, and you'll have a fantastic experience without sacrificing your catacomb visit. Enjoy!

antja · 3w · OP

That's really helpful, thanks! An hour and a half sounds perfectly doable. I was worried I'd need a whole afternoon. Good to know I can fit in the catacombs too. Appreciate the advice!

leahoenig · #scholarship

Studying at the Gregorian

Pontifical Gregorian University

So, I'm heading to the Pontifical Gregorian University in @Rome next semester. I've heard the library is incredible – supposedly one of the best theological libraries in the world. My question is, w… more

Reply 2 Share · 1h

adelineforstner · 1h

It's definitely quiet, but not suffocatingly so. Think more hushed reverence than total silence. You'll find plenty of individuals intensely focused, but also small groups huddled together discussing things. It’s less of a hallowed hall and more a seriously impressive, well-stocked study space. You'll probably find people open to collaboration if you approach them; it’s a pretty scholarly community, but not unfriendly. Making friends there might take a bit of initiative, but it's certainly doable. Don't worry about being too social – plenty of people are in the same boat.

leahoenig · 1h · OP

That's really helpful, thanks! The "hushed reverence" bit is exactly what I was hoping to avoid – I tend to work better with a little background hum. But it sounds like it's not a total deathly silence, which is good. So, a bit of initiative is needed to make friends, huh? I'm usually pretty shy, but I guess I'll have to push myself a little. Good to know it's not a completely cutthroat, unfriendly atmosphere.