We began our day before the sun even came up. Danielle, Ryan, and myself met downstairs at 6am, and made our way to Termini to catch a train to Florence. None of us have been, and we felt we couldn't leave Italy without seeing David. <3
When we arrived, we bought a map, and began to navigate our way around. As we walked out of the main train station, we were greeted by the beautiful Basilica di Santa Maria Novella. From there, we began our hunt for the Accademia. That's where David lives. :)
As we walked through the streets, everything seemed oddly quiet to me. Maybe everyone was still sleeping. We grabbed a panino and continued along our way. Along the way we stopped everywhere for pictures. Ryan, armed with two cameras, was our expert. Danielle and I, also into photography, marveled at his skill.
The Accademia surprised us. No sign of Mussolini in Florence. haha... No grand entrances or road ways... just what seemed to be a quiet little door, not many people, and a little sign. Inside, we were lucky enough to see a temporary musical instrument exhibit, as well as a Robert Thorpe exhibit, along with all the permanent classics. David was by far my favorite though. He was so large and grand. I wasn't expecting him to be quite so incredible. I only feel bad that I couldn't take pictures. He really was glorious. <3
From there, we made our way to the Duomo. It really was a site to behold. This decorative church looks very different from the churches we have in Roma. The exterior was intricately creative, while the inside, though grand, was rather plain. We wanted to go to the top, but my knee and ankle are still bothering me, and the others did not want to pay the 15euro fee. And so, we continued our journey.
Apparently Florence is known for its leather, and so we stopped in many outdoor markets, as well as stores along the way. Daniella bought a belt. Ryan bought his mom a purse, and his step dad a wallet. Even I bought something... for myself... a beautiful leather bag. That's right, I'm coming back stylin. haha
Before heading towards the fake David, we stopped in for some hot chocolate to warm up. Then we had some gelatto... because well... it's just so yummy. lol
Next stop? Palazzo Vecchio to take pictures of the "fake" David. This replica was nothing to laugh at. It too was very impressive. From there, Danielle and I went into the Uffizi, while Ryan stayed back to take some more pictures. Inside the Uffizi, we got to see many great works of art including Botticelli's "Birth of Venus," some Leonardo DaVinci originals, and even some Caravaggio's. Though very exhausting, and hard on my injuries, it was well worth it. There were even some nice views once at the top. :)
After the Uffizi, we went to take pictures of, and walk on the famous Ponte Vecchio. It was covered with jewelry stores. The streets around it were all lit up for Christmas. It was beautiful. Afterwards, we sat down to have a nice dinner.
It was a really nice day. We ended up heading back quite late... so late that when we arrived the metro was closing. So, we decided to take a bus.
After taking the wrong night bus, we were forced to walk to a bus stop that we for sure knew went to our residence. It turned out to be a blessing in disguise. Roma at night is even more magnificent than during the day. As we walked past the Coliseum, the forum, Piazza Venezia, and other such monuments, I thought of just how much I'm going to miss having it right in my backyard. Nothing compares to My Roma. <3
Signing Off,
Ciao Bella...
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