Days 16/17 – Florence

“The energy of Florence is indescribable: overflowing with bustle and charm, teeming with life. Every corner bears new treasures, every cobblestone a gem. The artistry in the sculptures, the landscapes, the architecture is beyond compare. I feel a sense of humility and awe walking along these ancient streets, which have served as witness to countless revolutions, tread upon for so many centuries by artists and martyrs and geniuses alike. The stones are infused with history and culture and knowledge: I feel it. I feel the presence of generations, I feel the weight of giants.” –Emily Kyle

Revisiting Italy felt like going home.  The first time I visited Italy, Florence and Rome immediately felt familiar and I knew in some small way I belonged here.  I am part Italian, so it was incredible to be able to visit a second time.  As a lover of art, Florence is the perfect city to spend time in.  Not only does it hold some of my favorite artwork, but it also has everything quintessentially Italian.  I had a ton of pasta, bought a leather purse, enjoyed musicians playing on the street, and soaked up the romantic sound of the Italian language.

In Florence we visited the Duomo and the Uffizi Gallery along with consuming as many carbs as possible and shopping at outdoor markets.  A day and a half in this beautiful city is not nearly long enough.  However, it was still wonderful to walk the streets of Florence once again.