Pisa, Italy

On Sunday, Chuck and I drove to Pisa.  It is in the region of Tuscany near the western coast of Italy. Pisa is about a two and a half hour drive southwest of Maranello.  Of course, we went to the the famous Leaning Tower (Torre Pendente).  The Leaning Tower is in the Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles), which houses the Duomo (Cathedral), the Baptistry, and the Camposanto (the monumental cemetery).  Though it was a cold day, the weather was clear and sunny.

The Duomo

We bought tickets to go inside and climb up the Leaning Tower.  It was pretty pricey, fifteen euros per person.  But we got an amazing view of the city and a good workout climbing the stairs...though St. Peter's Basilica was more of a butt burner.  At the start of the climbing, there was a definite leaning felt and felt my body trying to right itself.  As you climbed higher up, you felt more upright.

I thought the end of the stairs were at the bells, but there is one more set of stairs to climb to the very tip top of the tower.  

A lot of tourists!

Leaning Tower of Chuck

The Baptistry

The Duomo

Everyone was trying to hold up the Leaning Tower whereas we were trying to push it over!!

Inside the Duomo

After sightseeing, we end up eating at a sidewalk trattoria near the Piazza dei Miracoli.  Chuck ordered a pizza with pepperoni and olives (with the pits).  The pizza is different that the region where we live, Emilia Romangna, in that the dough is thicker, it's cheesier and more saucier.  I ordered spaghetti vongole viaci (spaghetti with small Italian clams) which is a traditional Tuscany dish.  Of course, our meal wouldn't be complete without a liter of wine.  Very delicious!

During Christmas time, climbing Santa Clauses are seen all over the balconies in Italy.  Also, there are a lot of holiday decorated lights above the streets as well as on buildings and lighted signs "Auguri" when you enter and exit a town.  "Auguri" means "best wishes", "congratulations".   

Chuck and I wish everyone a Merry Christmas (Buon Natale) and a Happy New Year (Felice Anno Nuovo)!