In 1842, Rohde left Copenhagen for Munich where he was strongly influenced by contemporary German artists. He there became acquainted with the Swedish painter J. M. Stäck (1812-1868) with whom he made extensive painting excursions in the Alps. In 1843, both artist left for Rome. Rohde only remained in Italy for one year before his return to Copenhagen.

From the seventeenth to the nineteenth century, Ruins of ancient buildings were popular subjects amongst foreign painters visiting Italy.