The Institute at Palazzo Rucellai - Study Abroad in Florence, Italy

Today I went to Siena & San Gimignano with my roommate Mike.

It was spectacular - both cities.  The small alleyways, the cobble stone steps, the medieval architecture, and of course, the vineyards upon vineyards that scattered the countryside.  

Siena was gorgeous.  An enormous piazza shaped like a half moon served as the city’s center.  Surrounding it were shops, ristoranti, and cafe's selling pasta, panini, gelati…and the list continues.  During some free-time, Mike and I “adventured” off alone, eventually getting lost, but coming across a peak of the city where we captured some magnificent views.  On our hike back, we stopped in a small restaurant and split a primo piatto course of the city’s famous handmade “pici” pasta.  It was like a thick spaghetti in wild boar and mushroom sauce.  Accompanying it was the most unbelievable olive oil I’ve ever tasted.  I cried.  Afterwards, we left for San Gimignano.

We climbed to the peak of the church tower in San Gimignano, as depicted by the photo above, and the view was truly breathtaking - though it’s impossible to capture it’s essence through a camera.

In comparison, while both cities were truly amazing, I think I preferred the quaintness of San Gimignano.   The untouched 13th century medieval architecture made me feel like I was back in time.  I have to admit however, the Cathedral in Siena was surreal.  Gothic black and white pillars and golden ceilings depicting the popes' ascensions was right out of “Alice in Wonderland.”  Hmm, maybe it’s a toss-up.

In any event so much walking and too little sleep.  Time to restore the balance.

Night & ciao,

Matthew

Submitted by Matthew Castanho, Fall 2010