What's Happening in Rome?

Ancient ships unearthed near Pisa are now on display in Rome. Pisa was once a major Roman port and its ancient harbor was unexpectedly found in 1998 when workmen uncovered remains of a boat from over 2000 years ago. 20 ships have now been uncovered as well as hundreds of small items associated with the harbor, which is now 10km inland. Pisa, A Journey Into The Sea Of Antiquity has reconstuctions of two of the boats and a fishing hut. Many items found at the site are also on display. The show will run in the San Michele a Ripa Grande complex, where the Culture Ministry is also housed, until May 31.

May 13 will bring many travelers to Rome for the Feast of the Madonna of Fatima. The statue of the Virgen will be transported from its home in Portugal to Castel Sant'Angelo and then carried in procession down Via della Conciliazione to St. Peter's Basilica. Huge crowds are expected so plan ahead if you're be traveling in the area May 13.

Due to protests by Catholics, a poster for the upcoming Da Vinci Code movie was removed from scaffolding surrounding the Church of St. Pantaleo. Protestors believe the movie promotes anti-church views. The movie is based on the popular book the Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown (compare prices). A recent increase in the number of visitors to the Vatican is partially attributed to this book.

In other Rome news, a Rome restaurant was fined 688 euros for a display of live lobster on ice. The court ruled it was abuse of the lobsters because they slowly die as they suffocate. Italy has some of the toughest animal anti-cruelty laws around. Earlier this year, Rome passed a law banning goldfish bowls because it is seen as cruelty to the fish.

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