The Marble Quarries of Carrara
The marble quarries above Carrara have been mined from before the Romans. Both the Roman Forum and Michelangelo’s David used marble from here.
A Traveller Not a Tourist in Rome
Visiting Rome can be exhausting - there is always more to see than time allows. Yet there’s much to do and see away from the usual tourist route, as well as hunting for the perfect coffee.
A Garden in Fiesole
Thoughts as I sit in a garden in Fiesole, overlooking Florence
Finding Leonardo in Fiesole
Above Florence is the delightful town of Fiesole, once home to the Etruscans (and a summer retreat for the Medici). In the hills above the town a plaque marks the spot where Leonard, using one of his creations, once tried to fly.
An Apartment in Florence
Thoughts on staying in an apartment in Florence above the San Lorenzo Markets. Of course food became a central part of the stay, with the Mercato Centrale just around the corner. Plus the place came with a clothesline hanging out the window.
A Gondola U-Turn
Two gondolas trying to pass, as one does a u-turn in a narrow canal; only in Venice!
The Lions of Venice
Representing St Mark, the patron saint of Venice, statues of lions are to be found throughout Venice, including atop the column standing in St Mark’s Square.