Snapshots of Florence

We spent a few days in Florence in early February - my first visit and inspired by my experience of the Rome trip back in December.

This time I went with P.  He had been before, but way back in 1975 with his first wife, so that doesn't count.

Florence is certainly a very attractive city with beautiful, slightly crumbling, architecture around every corner.  Even in a cool and sometimes grey February it is impressive.  We stayed in a hotel just behind the Duomo and so came out of the little alleway each morning to be confronted by the view of this most amazing building.  On the corner was the small workshop where we could stand and peer through the windows watching the craftsmen restoring statues and carvings.

My favourite time of day to study it up close was after dark when most of the huge crowds of tourists had disappeared.  I couldn't get enough of just looking up at the intricate carvings and the beautiful colours of the marble facade.

I am glad I visited and had the opportunity to appreciate all its glory.