Am really out of practice using this blog, so forgive me if there are omissions or repeats!
Yesterday (Saturday) we spent all day in the Oltrarno section of the city, across the river from the more touristy center near the Duomo/Uffizi. Wandered through the alleys and small streets between the Palazzo Pitti and Piazza di Santo Spirito where there are many craftsmen's studios producing hand printed paper, leather work, handmade clothing, metal workers making lanterns by hand, etc. Great area, and highly recommended when you have the chance to visit this lovely city. There was an antique car rally going on and our wanderings were interrupted from time to time as the old autos zoomed around the narrow streets. Thanks to Trip Advisor we found the "artisans' cafe" and a highly recommended Gelateria for a lunchtime meal between shopping and simply appreciating the architecture and flowers. Great people-watching area too!
Today we ventured up the hill from Florence by city bus along switchbacks past elegant villas to Fiesole, a little town with a Roman teatro and baths. After a light lunch over looking Florence and Brunelleschi's domed Duomo, we walked even further up the hill to Chiesa de Francesco with its simple interior and small cloister. We appreciate this type of small church far more, I'm afraid, than the huge cathedrals down in the city. Following a wooded path back down to the main square, up and down steps and streets in search of the Roman ruins, we discovered that we would have to pay to get into the ruins themselves. Having already walked 3 miles, we opted for the bus back down to the city, and a gelato in Piazza San Marco where we disembarked the bus.
Now we are resting prior to meeting some of our tour group for supper in another area of the city. Tomorrow morning we leave on our tour of Umbria. Our airbnb room has been most appreciated-nice young couple who are our hosts, great location in this very walkable city, and comfortable digs.
Will try to post some photos of our day in Fiesole.
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