Oct 5 - Sunday in the City

Some of the folks attended mass this morning at Santisimo Annunziata church.  In the afternoon we did a "house tour" visiting the Palazzo Davanzati built in the 1300's and then on to Palazzo Medici-Riccardi built in the mid-1400's by the powerful Medici family.  The most fascinating feature there was the beautiful chapel with wall paintings of the procession of the Magi to the nativity of Christ.  The rich colors and decidedly Tuscan landscape made this depiction of the Bible story very unique.  The Three Kings all happened to be dressed as Renaissance nobles much resembling the Medici family - artist's license and patron's choice!  The building is now used as offices for the Providence of Tuscany as well as the museum.  We also included a visit to the Santa Maria Novella Perfumery that originated and is still housed in the church monastery.  Monks from the 15th century began selling salves, elixirs and pharmacy items there and it has continued to today's commercial perfumes, herbal remedies and all sorts of other products business.   A nice day in Florence.  The weather continues to be perfect!  There will be more later . . .

 

 

 

Oct 4 - Tuscany Tour Day

We had the best seats on the motor coach for the Best of Tuscany Tour today.  Starting out from Florence at 8:30 am we traveled an hour south to Siena.  A local guide showed us around that beautiful city and we especially enjoyed the lovely cathedral.  Then it was onward to the organic farm for a great lunch and wine tasting.  Our visit there was cut a little short because of the traffic delay that ate into our time schedule but we enjoyed what time we had there.  Next stop, San Gimignano.  This medieval town once had 72 tower houses and is often nicknamed "The Medieval Manhatten".   17 of the towers remain and give the town a unique charm.  The main interest however was the "world champion gelato shop" and most everyone had to give it a try.  We ended the day in Pisa with its famous leaning tower.  It was a long day, but one that will live long in our memories with the help of the photos we hope you will enjoy.  Stay tuned, more coming . . .