Florence

There was just so much to see at this city that was founded by Julius Caesar in 59 B.C. Of course, the central focus is on religious buildings. The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fieore and Baptistry are so rich with different colors of marble and art pieces by none other than Leonardo da Vinci. "The David" (Da Vinci's masterpiece) wasn't viewable on the day we were there because the building is closed on Monday, but there is a replica outside, so Chris and Ruslan got a chance to see a good likeness.

On the door of the Baptistry are these depictions of Biblical stories.

Chris had known about the Ponte Vecchio bridge which spans the Arno River and that it is the one bridge that the Germans and Allies didn't destroy during WW II because of its strategic necessity. Good thing. It has been intact since 1345.

The Arn River below, C & R look at the Ponte Vecchio Bridge.

People in high places, up and behind Chris

People like to climb to the high places in this city, too. Behind Chris you can see the golden ball at the top of The Duomo. Again, people standing in line and paying to go to top and walk around this cupola. We were warned that if you were claustrophobic or had a heart condition, you weren't to attempt it as there are hundreds of steps to reach the top and no turning around on the way up. Throw in acrophobic as well. Pop wasn't interested.

C & R on the oldest street in Florence

But they've identified the oldest parts of the city and the streets are, of course, the narrowest.

Street artists are given permission to use chalk on specially marked off areas of the streets to create artwork (donations accepted) for the enjoyment of the tourists. Our guide told us that they were only good for a day or so when rain or some other chalk erasing event would come along and make them have to start all over again. Pity! They were really excellent!

Tourists amazed at the quality of this man's work!

As well as the well-known statues and other art is one created by Da Vinci that's simply carved on a brick wall. Story is that Leonardo created it to quiet a man who was making disparaging comments about the newly-unveiled David. Da Vinci stepped to the wall and drew the likeness of the man and it remains there today.

You have to look hard to see the likeness of a face

Street performers and these (shall I say) "Mimes" will pose with you for any donation. One of them got a good reaction from Chris and Ruslan.

Of course, on a warm day, nothing tops some gelato, an Italian staple when it comes to sweet treats. Neither Chris or Ruslan had had any before. They're fine with getting some more if the opportunity comes up.

 

 

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