We started with a leisurely morning at the farm, doing some routine chores such as laundry and paying bills – even on vacation some mundane tasks continue. Michael took a few more photos around the complex, including the pool and small chapel. After a small breakfast we headed out by about 10:30 to explore two more towns .
Our drive to San Gimignano took us through classic Tuscan countryside. The weather was perfect with the sun shining on earthy toned homes, olive groves, vineyards, sunflower fields (already harvested), and cyprus tree lined driveways filling the scene. Unfortunately no photo stops as we had a long drive.
San Gimignano was an interesting medieval town where the towers and cathedral had not been refaced as they have in Florence, Siena and most other towns. The town is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its medieval architecture and fine towers which have been preserved, unlike most other towns. Part of the reason for the continued existence of the towers is due to the plagues which went through the town. The town never repopulated after the wave in the 1400’s and as such there was little development in the area and importantly, there were no battles to destroy the towers. In the 19th century it was recognized by the artistic communities for its authenticity and the town began to prosper again. We had lunch in town with the strong medieval essence surrounding us. After lunch we treated ourselves to the best ice cream in the world…. at least according to themselves. The chef had indeed won many contests and the flavours were outstanding and unique. Michaels canelle (cinnamon) was a winner and my herb flavoured was excellent. Derek and Marketa tried a couple of flavours each and Derek picked the grapefruit as his favourite. And as the line up attested to, we were not the only ones to think so.
Next off to Siena where parking outside the town walls was a challenge as there was something going on at the stadium nearby. So Derek dropped us and we all went searching for spots. And walking along the street I found Mick and Sue! They were just getting in to town on their cycling tour. We knew they would be in the vicinity but it was quite a surprise to encounter them walking down the road. So they went off to check in and we made plans to hook up later.
Once again the local Cathedral was a highlight. Unlike Florence, we had a magnificent view of the city from a distance with the Terra Mater (Heaven and Earth) Statue in the foreground. And again we skipped the 20Euro entrance fees to the cathedral / baptismal/ museum/ cupola and chose to head to a Salvador Dali private collection exhibit. It was interesting to compare to the one in Figueres, Spain which had been to back in 2013. Many of the bronze sculptures here were post his death, or created from his concept drawings. The snail with wings was perhaps my favourite, however the long-legged elephants are fantastic also.
Next off to the ‘square’, which is actually a huge semi-circular amphitheater with a large clock wall on the long flat side. Horse races are run here twice a year in July & August – it must be spectacular with such sharp corners! We met up with Mick and Sue and had drinks and snacks around the square and got caught up on adventures. So nice to see them again before another 2 year hiatus.
Then the long drive back home with extra cudos to Derek for chauffeuring in the dark. Then even with no real dinner we were ready for bed!
