We visited the museum there which showcases all his inventions. He was so ahead of his time! Such a genius! Unfortunately, they wouldn't let us take photos inside.
But it was a beautiful morning to stroll around the cobbled lanes and snap a few pictures outside.
Afterwards, we headed to Pisa to see the famous Leaning Tower. Gorgeous buildings but very crowded, hot, and junky. Lots of made-in-China souvenirs. The only neat shop was a paper store selling stationery and cards. We bought nice, cool fruit cups for lunch then found a shady spot behind the buildings to sit and people-watch.
After a sleepy bus ride back to our hotel, we went for a refreshing swim. The Hotel Tamerici is an old elegant place full of antiques. The rooms are in need of updating but everything was clean and the staff was excellent. These two Italian gentlemen greet you as you walk in:
And I loved this still life in the corridor:
Dinner this evening was at another working vineyard. This is only one of two completely organic farms in all of the region.
I didn't take any photos of our meal but it was delicious. We came to realize that all Italian meals consist of an appetizer course, a pasta course, a meat course, dessert, wine, and grappa, a strong, brandy-like after-dinner drink.
In the middle is our host, to the right, his daughter, and, to the left, our tour director, Marisa.
The grapes were so luscious! And our meal! And the wine!
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3 comments:
I am enjoying your tour of Italy tremendously.
Anne
We went to Italy but only visited the larger cities via train which I regret, Milan, Venice and Rome. You don't really get a full picture until you go out to the smaller towns but that is true of anyplace!
Linda, did you just love walking through history?? The hotel sounds wonderful, so authentic. Tell us more!!
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