Out of the city

We were ready to drive out of the city and head to what we heard is beautiful countryside.   Cathy and I were great back seat drivers…..oohing and ahhing at every turn either because of the “fast turns” that brought on stomach distress or because of the beauty that surrounded us.

                          My sister Cathy loving the view of TUSCANY.

We stayed in the heart of Florence….so we could walk everywhere…and walk we did!!! Georgeous architecture filled with history, art and a fun marketplace……

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Florence is often known as the “Jewel of the Renaissance; a centre of medieval European trade and finance and one of the richest and wealthiest cities of the time.  The centre of the city is contained in medieval walls that were built in the 14th century to defend the city.

 

The best-known site and crowning architectural jewel of Florence is the domed cathedral of the city, Santa Maria del Fiore, known

                 The Duomo

 

This cathedral is by far thee most beautiful structure I have ever seen anywhere.   We stood in awe looking at and photographing the intricate craftsmanship and beauty!

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The historic center of the city is split by the Arno River.  It is spanned by eight bridges….the most central and most celebrated is the Ponte Vecchio  (Old Bridge)  It is lined with overhanging jewelry stores….very unique!   We didn’t buy any jewelry (can you imagine????) however, I met this watercolorist, Amor Dekhis painting at the bridge and purchased a painting he had just completed…of the bridge.