They visited St. Peter's Basilica, the world renowned collections of the Vatican Museum, and viewed some of its Armenian manuscripts on exhibit. In the evening, the group attended an event held in one of Romes most iconic sites: the Colosseum. The Holy Father, Pope Francis led Roman Catholics in the Stations of the Cross. April 16th began with a stimulating lecture and discussion presented by Anna Sirinian, the head of Armenian Studies in the University of Bologna, which focused on training the Armenian past in Italy. The afternoon featured a walking tour of the city: with visits to the Basilica of St John Lateran, the oldest church in Europe; the Arch Basilica Cathedral of the Most Holy Savior and of Saints John the Baptist and John the Evangelist in the Lateran, and the Scala Sancta, where most of the students and professors climbed the steps on their knees as is custom to honor Christ's passion; and the Roman Pantheon, the most preserved and influential building of ancient Rome. The day ended by taking part in a candlelight vigil mass in Santa Maria in Trastevere.

April 17, Easter Sunday morning — an important day among Christians world-wide — began in front of St. Peter's Basilica with Pope Francis performing the Liturgy. The last day featured a memorable visit to San Nicola da Tolentino agli Orti Sallustiani, one of the two Roman national churches of Armenia. There, the Department of Armenian Studies met the ambassador of the Republic of Armenia in Italy, Garen Nazaryan, and learned of the peculiarities of the church and its history. The students and faculty enjoyed this enriching trip to Rome, which has left a long-lasting impression and fond memories. The Department expresses its gratitude to Pázmány University and Hungary Helps for their support and sponsorship.

Marianna Manasyan (History MA, PPCU)