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Day 12
Destination:
Montecatini
Breakfast: At the hotel. Morning: Explore legendary Florence today, a UNESCO World Heritage Site set on the banks of the Arno River. Florence came into its own as a commercial and cultural center during the 13th century, when merchants and tradesmen organized guilds that commissioned works of art to adorn their churches and palaces. It was this revival of interest in art and architecture that gave birth to the Italian Renaissance, an amazing outburst between the 14th and 16th centuries that completely changed the face of this Tuscan town. The names of the great artists of Florence define the Renaissance—Dante, Boccaccio, Fra Angelico, Donatello, Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo. Begin your exploration of Florence with a morning walking tour of the city, which includes the glorious square of the Duomo, where you can marvel at the marble façade of the cathedral and its remarkable octagonal dome, designed by Brunelleschi, one of the most magnificent structures of Renaissance Florence. While there, you'll also view the Gates of Paradise, impressive bronze doors that intricately depict scenes from the Bible. Continue on to the Piazza Signoria, the political center of Renaissance Florence. Lunch: A light lunch will be included, featuring the opportunity to try a local delicacy: lampredotto, a popular street food sandwich made of tripe (the edible lining of cow intestine) slow-cooked in a broth of onions, tomato, and other ingredients until it has the texture of tender roast beef, served on crunchy bread. Afternoon: Free for your own discoveries—ask your Program Director for recommendations. You may wish to visit one of the many fine Florentine leather showrooms. The art of Florentine leather tanning has been passed down through many generations to the tanners of today. Although machinery has changed with improvements in modern technology, many of the old dyeing techniques have remained virtually unchanged. Dinner: Return to Montecatini, where dinner is on your own—ask your Program Director for local restaurant recommendations. Evening: You have the freedom to spend the rest of your evening as you wish—ask your Program Director for recommendations. |
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3/17/25 |
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