| 18-Mar-2024 | Today’s adventure was a trip to Florence via .italo’s high-speed train service. After a smooth, quiet, 1h 40m trip north at a top speed of 150mph, we arrived in Florence. Unfortunately yesterday’s clear blue skies are gone, but we have things to see, so onward.

 

 

Strolled up on the piazza of Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and were not prepared for the MASSIVE green, pink, and white gothic-ness of this structure. A UNESCO world heritage site covering much of the historic center of Florence, this is one of the largest churches in Italy. It remains the largest brick dome ever constructed!! Today’s grey, overcast skies did not do it justice – the 19th century Gothic revival facade is insanely intricate(and creepy). Much to my surprise, the inside was unimpressive by comparison. Huge, yes, but not nearly as adorned nor ornate as what we’ve seen already on this trip.

 

We wandered into a few artisan workshops – jewlery was acquired. 🙂 Beautiful!

 

We lunched at Trattoria Sergio Gozzi, recommended by my friend Stefania. The pastas were *chef’s kiss*!

Unfortunately, we stepped out to a steady light rain. We sought a few potentially interesting sites (ancient city walls) without much reward, so we headed back to Rome.

A late afternoon stop into the local wine bar was followed by takeout pizza. It has been an epic food day!