This time we are in Pisa. This is the entrance to the Bishop's quarters and the offices of the Archdiocese. It was the plaza area where our tour group met. I couldn't help but snag a pic with the bicycle parked out front. They use bicycles everywhere, it's just business as usual.
Sidewalk cafe in the Piazza dei Miracoli, the Field of Miracles. As you look to the right of where you stand to take this pic you see the tower, cathedral and the baptistry.
Loved seeing the horses and buggies here in the Piazza.
The cathedral and tower.
The gorgeous leaning tower in all it's splendor. I love this shot as I got the sun giving it sort of a halo effect. Isn't it cool!
Cherub statue with the baptistry in the background.
There were SO MANY PEOPLE trying to hold up the tower. From every angle there were people with their arms out. I couldn't bring myself to help them. HAHA!
Closer view of the base of the tower. Beautiful architecture everywhere. We sure don't have that in the U.S. People just don't realize how young our country is. Way too young to have any of this kind of man-made beauty that has stood for centuries.
The Baptistry of San Giovanni, John the Baptist. The incredible detail in these buildings is mind blowing. I mean, think about it - they didn't have power tools, you know!
This graffiti greeted us as we got off the bus. I thought it was funny.
Particularly because, at just the right angle, the tower does look like it is not leaning!
River Arno, Florence
Quick bus tour along the river as we made our way back to the ship.
I love all the colorful homes along the river.
All of these white "frames" everywhere are ledges that will hold candles, in preparation for the celebration of Feast Day, June 24, in honor of patron saint, St. John, the Baptist. Every year the city organizes several cultural and folkloric events that end with a huge fireworks show.
This was the last day of our trip. There is so much more that we want to see and will, of course, have to plan another trip to include Florence, Rome and Venice - at least!
I will be posting once more with trip pictures of Pompeii in the coming days. It was so fascinating to learn so much about the city that was barely touched on in World History class. Pompeii pictures are in a separate album all their own as there were so many of them.
Hope you're enjoying my vacation! It was wonderful.
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