David's Diary: Friday, June 14, 2002
Florence Part I
Duomo Facade
We took yesterday off and just lazed around the marina. This morning we packed our bags, took the bus into Pisa, found the train station, and took the train to Florence (or Firenze as it is known in Italian). Arriving at the busy Florence train station, we booked a hotel room for the night, had some lunch and then were off to see Florence.
The Duomo square is our first stop. The dome dates from the 13C, but the facade was added in the late 19C. Duomo is the seat of the bishop and literally means "our home", where everyone is welcome. We entered the cathedral and walked up the long nave to stare at the altar and Brunelleschi's dome above.
Jocelyn in Florence
We waited in line to pay to climb the 434 steps to the stop of the dome. After climbing the short, steep, final set of steps we came out on top with a 360 degree view of Florence. We slowly worked our way around the dome, taking in the views, seeing the River Arno, the same river where Dragonsinger is moored, and the mountains that surround the city.
Baptistery Ceiling
We walked back down then crossed the Duomo Square to visit the Baptistery. We sat down inside and looked at the ceiling, covered with mosaics. The Last Judgement is depicted with a large picture of Christ. As we left the Baptistery and looked at the world-famous bronze doors which depict scenes from the bible. The detail of these doors is amazing.
Dinner in Florence
We walked the streets of Florence and slowly made our way towards our hotel. After more than a kilometer, we found the hotel, checked in, and had a rest. In the early evening we headed out and found a restaurant to satisfy all of our taste buds. After a great Italian dinner, we walked the streets of Florence until we happened upon the River Arno. We walked along to the famous Ponte Vecchio, walked past the Uffizi Gallery, and into Plaza della Signoria in the heart of the city. An orchestra was playing and we got a front row seat despite the crowds. After enjoying the summertime concert we all had an ice cream before walking back to our hotel for a well deserved night's sleep.
