Why Do We Call It Florence.

An early start today, breakfast at 6:45 and on the road by 7:30. It's off to Florence or as it's called in Italy "Firenze".  Not to sure why we Anglos call it Florence as it's true Italian name sounds nothing like that. It's pronounced something like "fee-a-ren-za". 

At any rate, it's a great city to visit. It is considered to be the birthplace of the renaissance (whatever that means) and was once the capital of Italy (fron 1865 to 1871). 

The gang planning the day.

And what follows is just a sample of what we saw today in a city famous for the arts.

Dante lives here! This bust depicting Dante, marks the place of his home in Firenze.

The colourful "Duomo" or "Cathedral" of Florence. 

Has anyone heard of Michelangelo's "David". This is a replica with the original being under lock and key at the Accademia Gallery in Florence. 

An infamous balcony in the Piazza Della Signoria, where Hitler once stood to address the crowds  in Florence.

Some of the sculptures around the piazza are pretty impressive.

Basilica Santa Croce... Houses Galileo's and Michelangelo's remains, among others.

The tomb of Michelangelo ...

The tomb of Galileo ... 

The tomb of Machiavelli ...

Santa Croce is the final resting place for many notable names from Italy's rich history.

And i thought New York City was a busy place...  

Another great day is in the books. Can't believe how cooperative the weather has been too.

Tomorrow it's off to Pisa and then to a local winery for a traditional Tuscan meal.

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