Italy Captured our Hearts!

Everything about Italy is inspired; from masterful works of art, delicious food, lively music, breathtaking landscapes, and amazing wines. Josh and I had the most incredible experience indulging ourselves in all things Italian.

First stop: Florence 

Florence is known for its history. Buildings, statues, and museums are all strong reminders of the influential greats that once resided in Firenze, and remains of famous artists litter the streets as common place.  

The Duomo
This gothic cathedral was originally built in the 1400's and it holds over 20,000 people! 

One of the many replicas of David! Ooo la la!

The Ponte Vecchio is the only surviving bridge from the medieval days.

The Galleria dell Academia houses Michelangelo's David, the man who defeated the giant.  

Chalk art: Madonna and child

An overview of the city.

Second stop: Cooking class in the remote Tuscany

During this part of the trip Josh and I took an Italian cooking class. We learned authentic Italian family recipes from Pat and went on guided tours with Palo. He took us to the Leaning Tower of Pisa, along with other small villages where we learned about food and wine from local producers, visited open markets, and art workshops. During our stay at the farmhouse, we most enjoyed drinking wine in the gardens and hiking through the villages. 

Beautiful sights ...

... and scenes. I love the way Italian villages developed in clusters.

Old Roman ruin that was only discovered 100 years ago  in Tuscany.

Old family farm house with the crest firmly in place.

I think it's amazing that remains of the old clock can still be seen.

Old winery where we went for a tasting. The owner said he couldn't remember the first bra that was left, but that he sure remembers the last :)

Simply perfect!

This entire gate was, for the most part, made out of shells.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa

This is Palo, our tour guide for the week. Behind him is an old palace. You can see all the crests, which denotes transfer of power. Each power placed their crest higher than the other to show strength and importance.

Obviously having a good time soaking up the warmth of the sun!

During this course we learned how to make sicilian chicken, broccoli pasta, biscotti, various salads and dressings, and drunken pears. It was an unforgettable experience!

Third stop: Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is made up of five villages where people have built up their homes and towns on the steep rocky cliffs. There is a train that runs through each town, but commonly people hike the trails to take in the stunning and dramatic coastline. The pictures do not do this area justice, I recommend visiting Cinque Terre for yourself :)

This walk is known as Via Dell' Amore or Lover's Walk. The idea is to place a locket to symbolize your love.

People put locks anywhere they could find space. The path is brimming with locks left over the years.

The towns look so colorful and bold.

We drank lots of wine, enjoyed the famous honey gelato, and ate loads of pesto.

We went back to add our own locket.

This was a three hour hike from Vernazza to Manarola. The views were absolutely breath taking.

The hills are full of orange and olive groves. Farmers currently use monorails to get produce down the steep cliffs.

Views from the top!

This is easily one of my favorite spots!

Josh and I cherished our time in Italy and can't wait to get back!

Up next: brother's visit and weekend in Wexford!