As we enter the city, I can see the Colosseum standing tall, majestic, powerful, even intimidating. It is an incredible sight to behold. It has stood for nearly 2,000 years. It is the second most visited monument in the world – the Eiffel Tower is first – and draws millions of tourists from all corners of the globe. It is a testimony to the colossal engineering brilliance of the ancient Romans, and it is simply fascinating.

I meander through the streets and take in the vibrancy of Rome. It is a sight to see. I wonder what life was like at the height of the empire, when Rome’s population exceeded 1 million, which is extraordinary to say the least. I do know that the poor lived miserably – as they often do now – and struggled to survive.