On the Way of Regina Viarum

On Sunday, 22nd of October, some of our seminarians embarked on a traditional excursion to the famous Papal Residence of Castel Gandolfo, officially known as the Apostolic palace of Castel Gandolfo. The excursion was head by don Eduardo Baura, a lover of cycling and a staunch promoter of “learning Rome”. The excursion kickstarted with the ceremonial departure of about 15 of our seminarians elegantly vested in sportive wears and helmets with their bicycles of different colours. The cyclists were also accompanied by a van with provisions for eventual contingencies.

The cycling took through the route of Appian way (Latin: Via Appia), the famous ancient road famously called regina viarum longarum by Statius and named after Appius Claudius Caecus, the Roman censor who began and completed the first section as a military road to the south in 312 BCduring the Samnite Wars. The first point of arrival of the cycling was the square where the Papal residence is located. From there they have gone at the beautiful blue lake Albano where they had their lunch, swam, rested, and recited the holy rosary. They returned tired but very happy for and satisfied with the beautiful experience.