Florence, Pisa, DAY 6, June 23, 2009

Florence & Pisa were on the schedule today. Lots of Renaissance history to absorb. Bus #A3 was ready to hurry us to Florence. We walked and saw some beautiful buildings, statuary, and tombs of the contributors of the city's golden age. David is the big draw. Michelangelo touch is everywhere throughout Italy. Unfortunately, we only had time to see the copy of "David" on the Piazza. The original was moved from the Piazza to protect it from damage due to pollution and general weathering. Quite frankly, if I was told that what we saw was the original, how would I have known the difference?

This is the Basilica of something or the other.

From there, more beautiful churches, more sculptures, and more more.

Back on the bus, then to Pisa.

Yes, the leaning tower really does lean. It's then that you realize that if it wasn't for bad engineering, nobody would come to Pisa. That tells you something about human nature. Screw-up and it's a story. Do it right and everybody walks by without taking notice.

Pisa was more to an a American's expectation of a landmark site. plenty of mown grass around the building and everything was steamed cleaned. more like a park than an ancient church.

After seeing these buildings, you realize that the people in the 15th century just had nothing better to do than show-off by building magnificent structures.