The Lummus Family: March 2012

The stairs leading up to the Basilica di San Miniato al Monte.

After pulling out of Ferrara, our gladiator (a.k.a. bus driver) pointed us south and headed through the Italian Alps. After a beautiful ride through what must be one of the most scenic parts of Italy, we made our way into Florence. Our very first point of action was to drive up to one of the most breathtaking and picturesque views of the city--the Basilica di San Miniato al Monte.

As we made our way up the winding, narrow roads, my siblings and I were wondering where we were going. I was even worried that the huge bus was going to work its way into a tough, unnegotiable part of the neighborhood and we'd be stuck trying to figure a way out. Thankfully, our guide and the driver were seasoned professionals, so there was absolutely nothing to worry about!

The view did not disappoint! It was awe-inspiring. It looked like a shot you would see in a movie about Italy. We all loved the spot so much that we chose to walk around and spend a good amount of time there just checking everything out and soaking it all up.

Group shot at the Basilica with the city of Florence
in the background.

Bill and David--I love this shot!

After a while, we were all anxious to get settled into our hotel located in the heart of Florence. Once again, our rooms were exquisite--comfortable beds with soft sheets, big windows that opened completely, and great views of the city. I wish I had thought of taking pictures of all the rooms in every city, but I only remembered a few times. I did take some of Anna and William's corner room in Florence. They were thrilled that they got their own room and they felt like they lucked out every time with room assignments--of course, everyone felt that way--so it was a win-win for all!

That's Dad (in the pink shirt) standing in front
of the hotel arranging for the porters to get our luggage.
The bus you see in the lower right hand corner
of the picture was our bus.

Melody and Sarah in the hotel lobby. Too cute!!

Anna and William's room. This shot was taken at night or I
would have opened the windows to show their view!

Looking back at their door.

Their bathroom with doors that opened
to a balcony.

It wouldn't be Italy if I didn't include a picture of a bidet.
Every hotel room had one.

After freshening up, we all met outside and began our walk to explore the city. Stefania took us everywhere. There was so much history standing right before our eyes. We visited the Piazza della Repubblica first. It was a gorgeous time of day and the way the sun was shining into the square seemed majestic.

Swope Family outside the hotel ready to explore!

The group standing in the center of the Piazza della Repubblica.

Just love the balcony!

My guys!

After leaving the square, we headed down the street towards the Ponte Vecchio. This arch bridge was built in Roman times, and was lucky to not have been destroyed by the Nazis like all the other bridges crossing the Arno that they blew up when they were retreating. There are several jewelry stores, goldsmiths and souvenir shops actually located on the bridge. There is also the Vasari Corridor that spans across the top of the bridge. The corridor connects two buildings on different sides of the river, It was built in the 1500's for the ruling family to walk back and forth between their homes without having to be out in public.

The Vasari Corridor with the windows Mussolini
had put in for Hitler to enjoy the view.

Anna, Abbey, Miles and Alex looking out over
the Arno River.

We were all pretty hungry at this point and decided to go off and grab some dinner. Everyone split up to do a little exploring on their own and then later met back up at the hotel. We decided to take advantage of the fabulous rooftop bar. It was dusk and the sun was setting behind the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Flower. Not surprisingly, Bill was able to grab some great shots of the cathedral.

As a special treat, my cousin, Theresa, and her husband, Joe, (who live in France) met up with us to spend a couple days together. It was wonderful seeing them and hearing about their adventures. After spending a couple hours enjoying the Italian night air, we made plans for the next day and headed to bed. Pisa here we come!!!