This painting is part of my Italian Skies series and captures the historic architecture surrounding the Trajan Forum in Rome, Italy. At the center stands Trajan’s Column, renowned for its intricate spiral reliefs that describe Rome’s military campaigns. The ashes of Emperor Trajan were once interred in its hollow base, and while the original statue of Trajan no longer remains, the column now rises 125 feet crowned by a bronze statue of Saint Peter.

Framing the scene are two domed churches that define the skyline: Santa Maria di Loreto, completed in 1596, on the left, and Santissimo Nome di Maria, completed in 1741, on the right. Together, these landmarks embody the enduring spirit and grandeur of Rome’s history, faith, and artistry.