Florence is a gem of a Renaissance city, and we have been taking full advantage of its rich art and culture. Some of the best art can be found in the church, such as the Santa Felicità church near the Ponte Vecchio, where the painter Pontormo did a splendid representation of the Deposition. We stood in awe before it--and appreciated the opportunity to escape Florence's blazing hot summer sun! Other highlights have included the Galleria Accademia, where Michelangelo's David towers in majestic glory; the Bargello Museum, where a multitude of Renaissance sculptures can be found; and a tour of Florence's "Last Supper" paintings. There is so much to see!
On a day trip to the medieval city of Siena, we wound through the narrow streets towards the Campo, the historic and well-photographed main piazza. From there, we ascended the Torre del Mangia, the incredible bell-tower (all 400 steps of it!), and toured the Duomo, or the cathedral, where the students put their Latin to the test by reading the inscriptions.
Of course, every day we consume our fair share of gelato because, "Paese che vai, usanza che trovi," which is the Italian way of saying "When in Rome, do as the Romans do!" Well, we're close enough! Ciao for now :)
Taking a break on our day trip to Siena
In the courtyard of a Renaissance Palazzo
On the rooftop of the newly & beautifully restored Ospedale degli Innocenti
A panoramic view of Firenze from San Miniato di Monte