THE MIDDLE EAST & EUROPEAN SERIES PT16
PISA & FLORENCE, ITALY
It’s hard to avoid the busy tourist trail in Italy but after my experience in Rome, I’m yet to be turned off by the crowds.
THERE SEEMS TO BE A GEM IN EVER CORNER OF ITALY
The train and bus network in Europe makes travelling from city to city and breeze and gives me some much needed chill time between walking the 35,000 steps a day.
WHERE IS PISA?
Leaning Pisa & impressive Florence
LEANING TOWER OF PISA
Pisa is famous for many things but nothing more than the bell tower of the Cathedral next door, The Leaning Tower of Pisa. From the moment construction started it began to lean as the immediate ground could not support its weight. As the construction progressed it began to lean more and more, eventually reaching a tilt of 5.5 degrees. The structure had to be stabilised to ensure it’s future and people’s safety. The tilt was reduced to 4 degrees.
It is possible to climb to the top and tickets can be bought at the entrance for around $20. Although there are almost 300 steps, it’s not a difficult climb by any stretch and legs for some great views of the surrounding area.
FLORENCE
Pisa was only a stop on the way to Florence, so I didn’t stay. In Florence I checked into Plus hostel which is generic brand of large hostels throughout Europe. If I’m honest I wasn’t interested in my accommodation but just needed somewhere convenient and Plus was only a few minutes away from the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore.
Leaning Pisa & impressive Florence
PIAZZA DELLA SIGNORIA
Considered the centre of Florence, the L shaped square hosts, Palazzo Vecchio, the town hall. Here you will be able to see one of the 5 statues of Michelangelo’s David. However, if you wish to see the original then you will have to visit the Accademia Museum. The bronze one is in the Bargello National Museum
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BASILICA OF SANTA MARIA NOVELLA
The Cathedral of Florence is situated near to the train station it lends it’s name to and for me was by far the most unique building in the town. It is was built in the 15th century and is open for tourists. You can also up to Brunelleschi’s dome (Giotto’s Bell Tower), for the best views of the city. Admission is usually free but the queue might take some time.
FINAL THOUGHTS
My time at Pisa was short but during my few days at Florence I found myself continuing to fall for the Italian charm, especially it’s café culture and architecture
NEXT UP
Magical Venice with a side trip to San Marino and Bologna. Click to read.
SAFE TRAVELS, DS x
111/229
This post is part of The Middle East & European Series, click to explore or for episode 1 click here.
