4 for Florence!

Florence, Italy

Presenting...THE TOP 4! HOOPAH!

View of the bridges from the Uffizi Museum

4. Florence is iconic for its Renaissance sculptures and paintings; a trip to Florence would be incomplete without visiting the Accedemia to see Michelangelo’s David. It is, as our tour guide Lisa put it, “perfection.” His ability to create such a magnificent sculpture is truly breathtaking. It is immense. His features are impeccable. You can see the veins on his left hand; the perfectly muscular kneecaps. The statue is marble, but its perception is purely humane. It is art at its finest.

3. Florence, besides its art, is known for its markets and shops. And, yes, I gladly fell victim to the Italian leather and hand-made jewelry. Did I buy an Italian leather jacket? Why, yes, I proudly did. I cannot wait to wear it, and because of its handiwork, I will be able to wear it for years to come. It’s beautiful. As are the earrings and purse that I also happened to purchase. Walking through the stalls of the open market along the main streets of Florence, I had difficulty saying no to any adorable leather belt, purse, scarf, or jacket that came in my way. There were about 3 full streets of open stalls. Colette, Kaiah and I walked down each one, sweating in the Italian sun beating down our necks (relishing any opportunity to hop into a stall’s air-conditioned store). The Italian chants, "You like? I show you one," enticed us as we slowly caved into the good deals and fine leather goods. They say it's nearly impossible to say, "No," to a woman. I say it's nearly impossible to say, "No," to good, soft leather and persuasive Italians. 

Produce at Food Market

2. In the midst of our shopping, it was only natural to replenish ourselves from the heat. While the hearty meals have been divine, to say the least, we were all ready for something a little lighter. We browsed through the large, food market at the end of one of the squares. Massive fruit stands juxtaposed cow tongues and salami in an open freezer. Wine and olive oils shimmied into fresh trout and salmon on ice. We sampled and chose pesto cheese, fresh raspberries, strawberries and cherries, and a large foccacia loaf. We took our feast back to the hotel to wash the fruit, and we enjoyed a fresh lunch on the patio of our hotel. Scrumptious, relaxing, and refreshing? Absolutely.

1.  We did a LOT of walking when we hiked up both the Duomo and the Bell-tower. There are about 463 steps in the Duomo, a church (or basilica) in the center of Florence. In addition to the magnificent painting on the inner arch of the dome, it offers amazing views of the city and nearby countryside. Immediately following our first climb, we went across the square to the Bell-tower. Though not as high as the Duomo, we were still able to enjoy more panoramic views of the city and country. Florence's crowded city center seemed minute to the rolling hills, lush trees and stucco roof houses that littered the surrounding scenery. Small cities blended beautifully into the mountains and forestry. L'Italia è bella. 

View of the Bell Tower from the Duomo

L'Italia è bella