We have a wonderful view from our hotel window. As we awoke to get ready for the day, so did the city. Streets swept, shop windows washed and early bird tourists mingling with locals going to work. After breakfast, we took a walking tour to get oriented to our Florence neighborhood. Those interested in shopping (count me in), had an opportunity to visit Peruzzi’s Leather Factory before its official opening. Without a crowd of shoppers, we were given an overview of what was available in this gorgeous two-floor gallery, and individual attention for our shopping pleasures. The first leather jacket that was modeled was a good fit and good price for me. I'm sure there was some fast talking about discount and tax-refund, but the look, feel, and price tag of the leather jacket seemed just right for me. Carta di Credito to the rescue.
Lunch in Piazza della Signoria, some window-shopping, the best gelato, and then back to hotel to regroup for afternoon's guided art tour. We had an enthusiastic, passionate guide for this tour. He mingled art history with church beliefs leading to how the Renaissance opened up minds and hearts to view humanity as a work of divine art
The Franciscan Basilica di Santa Croce houses priceless art and the tombs of many distinguished Italian citizens, including: Michelangelo, Galileo, Machiavelli, and Rossini. The art and architecture pay tribute to the innovations and discoveries in art, music, science and literature.
From there we walked to the Bargello which was once a prison but now functions as the National Museum of Sculpture. Our focus was on early works of Michelangelo and those "non-finito."
Then to the much-awaited Academia Gallery to view, explore and understand the story of Michaelangelo's David, the imposing marble masterpiece of the Renaissance. Magnifico!
After a busy day with a lot of walking, we relaxed and enjoyed a fabulous dinner at the beautiful Sabatini's Restaurant - delicious food, great presentation, and personalized service. Tutto bene. Then back to hotel for nightcaps and sweet dreams.
Lunch in Piazza della Signoria, some window-shopping, the best gelato, and then back to hotel to regroup for afternoon's guided art tour. We had an enthusiastic, passionate guide for this tour. He mingled art history with church beliefs leading to how the Renaissance opened up minds and hearts to view humanity as a work of divine art
The Franciscan Basilica di Santa Croce houses priceless art and the tombs of many distinguished Italian citizens, including: Michelangelo, Galileo, Machiavelli, and Rossini. The art and architecture pay tribute to the innovations and discoveries in art, music, science and literature.
From there we walked to the Bargello which was once a prison but now functions as the National Museum of Sculpture. Our focus was on early works of Michelangelo and those "non-finito."
Then to the much-awaited Academia Gallery to view, explore and understand the story of Michaelangelo's David, the imposing marble masterpiece of the Renaissance. Magnifico!
After a busy day with a lot of walking, we relaxed and enjoyed a fabulous dinner at the beautiful Sabatini's Restaurant - delicious food, great presentation, and personalized service. Tutto bene. Then back to hotel for nightcaps and sweet dreams.
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