Florence: Part 2

After non-stop walking since I arrived in Europe, I figured I'd take a day just to rest my weary feet. That mentality didn't last too long though - the gorgeous sunshine tempted me out of laziness and I let myself wander over to the Basilica di Santa Maria Novella. Santa Maria is quite the celebrity in Florence, so I thought paying a visit to the Church and Museum would be appropriate.

According to the information guide, in 1219, twelve Dominican friars led by Fra Giovanni da Salerno came from Bologna and 2 years later obtained as their Florentine dwelling the church of Santa Maria delle Vigne, outside the city walls. The much larger church today started construction in 1279, concluded by the mid 1300s. Considering how old the church is, it has been kept in fantastic condition - the marble floors, external walls, and interior decorations were all spectacular to behold.

A lot of people recommend visiting churches in Europe because they contain so much beautiful art. The Church and Convent of Santa Maria Novella was no exception - with Filippo Brunelleschi's wooden Crucifix, and works by Masaccio, Alberti, Ghirlandaio, Filippino Lippi, Alessandro Allori, Tito, and Cigoli. All artwork was contributed before the 17th century and most have been well-preserved until today.

For the rest of the day, I decided to try and avoid the rest of the tourists by escaping to the other side of the Arno River. Lunch was a simple panini from a local deli frequented by workers in the area - I knew I was in the right place as soon as I saw the well-dressed clientele! Dessert was at supposedly the best gelateria in Florence: Gelateria Santa Trinita. Well, it didn't disappoint - it was the best chocolate and strawberry gelato I've had so far, definitely deserving of a second visit!

With a satisfied stomach, I took a leisurely stroll over to the Piazzale Michelangelo where the replica of Michelangelo's David stands, on top of a hill where I was rewarded with a breathtaking view of the city. While I was admiring the beauty of the rooftops surrounding the Duomo, I met a fellow Vancouverite! Turns out he arrived in Florence around the same time, except instead of a 1-month travelling excursion, he's on a 5-year expedition around the world!

Still on the other side of the Arno, I decided to continue the "local" experience and try dinner at Trattoria Sabatino, after reading rave reviews from Florentines. It was like getting homecooked Italian food at ridiculously cheap prices. The entire time I was dining, I did not see another tourist in the restaurant - the patrons all seemed to be regulars. My whole 3-course dinner came to a whopping €13.50 including a cover charge and a tip. I am seriously contemplating whether to go back tomorrow.

The walk back to the city center from the restaurant was another treat - with the sun gone, all the lights along the Arno River created elegant reflections, which prompted me to reflect...

So far, I've stopped in Germany for a beer, seen 2 performances at the Musikverein in Vienna, walked among ruins in Pompeii and Rome, relaxed by the Amalfi Coast, and now I'm surrounded by amazing Renaissance art in Florence. It's been incredible, and there's still more to go!

One note: I really appreciate all the comments from everyone - it's helped me feel connected to home, which means a lot. Travelling continuously has been an unforgettable experience, but also extremely tiring and I do miss home!