I have really enjoyed the food here. Here is one of the pastries we sampled at a little cafe. We have tried a number of things including pasta with a wild boar sauce, penne with shrimp (complete with pinchers and eyes...ewww) and it has all been pretty good. Also, plenty of pizza.
Thank heavens for all of the walking, or I may have needed two seats on the return flight.
Monday, January 21, 2008
A bit of local flavor
When in Rome!
Yesterday, we took the train to Rome, my first train ride ever. While a day isn't nearly long enough to see everything in the beautiful city, we did our best to pack it all in. Starting at the Colosseum which was amazing, the size and the guides quite graphic details of what took place in this building.
Next we ventured to the Vatican and St. Peters, which was absolutely breathtaking, in many ways. I was able to see the pieta, which was definitely a highlight, I only wish it was better lit and you could get closer. The soft sunlight was shining through the cupola and as we were leaving a group was singing, and the sound was absolutely heavenly.
Following, we stopped off at the Pantheon, which was really interesting, the size and the age, you couldn't help thinking of those who had visited for centuries.
Next we moved on to the Trevi fountain, which was my favorite of the day. A fountain freak, I was in awe of how upon approach, you are walking through the city, like any other block and around the corner, viola, massive fountain. It was really incredible.
And on to the Spanish steps, which was a bit less impressive than I had imagined, but they were doing construction at the top and I think that was a bit distracting. However, some of us drank from the fountain at the base of the steps, while others referred to it as the "colera fountain." Still alive today, so I guess that is a good sign.
Today, on to wine country!
Saturday, January 19, 2008
David
This is a replica of Michaelangelo's David high on a hill overlooking Florence. While we did visit the original (no photos allowed) this was similarly impressive.
View of Florence
While the treck to the top of the mountain was a bit exhausting, the view from the top was worth every breath. This was taken just as the morning fog shrouding the city was lifting.
Alter in church upon the hill
This is a photo of the alter and dome above. The mosaic was absolutely breathtaking.
Chapel view
This is a view of the cross in the chapel up on the hill. The chapel was so beautiful, peaceful, and lit only with natural light and a few candles.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
