We arrived in Firenze and explored a bit before our city tour. 

My first stop after arriving in the city of Florence was the Piazza del Duomo to view the magnificent and iconic Duomo. It was raining cats and dogs, and your girl didn’t have an umbrella, so I opted for a bar where I enjoyed a chocolate croissant and a cappuccino while I waited out the downpour. Soon enough it was sunny. I walked back towards the Duomo, determined to climb to the top of Giottos Bell Tower. The guide yesterday explained that it was the 4th largest, smaller than the one in Sevilla I had climbed last year. I felt pretty confident that I could conquer the tower.

After about a half an hour wait, it was game on. Holy cow was it a tough climb though. Narrow and spiral, the staircase was a two-way, although in all actuality there really wasn’t enough room for two at a time, nor was it safe. As I climbed higher & higher, I couldn’t help but think to myself “how the crap am I going to get down from here?” The view from the top of the tower was pretty cool, although I was more excited because I had made it to the top. 

Now it was time to get down. I had timed it perfectly (without trying). There were very few people making the trek up as I was carefully but swiftly heading down. Shaky and sweaty, I successfully made it to the bottom. Yo! Girl deserves some pizza and beer after that!

I next visited the Basilica di Santa Croce. This Roman Catholic church is the burial place of some majorly important Italians: Galileo, Machiavelli, and Michelangelo (artist not turtle). There’s even a monument to writer Dante Alighieri. It was definitely a cool place. After leaving the church, I quickly walked down the street where Dante lived. Such history! 

This trip was certainly unforgettable. Plagued with dark times and beautiful memories, this trip will stay with me forever. I met some truly wonderful people with whom I desperately hope to remain friends with. In my darkest times they were there for me and welcomed me with open arms. I will be forever thankful to them. 

So until next time…