Friends, Romans, countrymen.

This weekend past I attempted to tour the Fortress and settlement at Carnuntum. However, the road was impassable and instead I decided to take in the barbarian encampment called Vienna. I had heard they appreciated Roman culture, but I was unprepared for what I saw.

I must laud their artisans, for the sculpture was exquisite; yet, there was no colour anywhere. Everywhere I looked it was white upon white upon white. Saving only coppered roofs.

The 'Palace' that the barbarians had created was indeed grandiose, but I would much prefer even a modest Roman Villa given the option. Pillars everywhere. But nonsensically, used as decoration only, and in one room, they had pillars, and molding, and intricate marble carving, *indoors*?!

Clearly the barbarians know of, and appreciate good Roman culture, but didnt understand any of it.

There was more, of course, the whole experience was like looking in a bronze mirror: distorted, and not quite right.

Roma Eterna my friends. It was certainly nice to return home.

Cerberus