Oct 23 Day 19 Continuing Through Southern Tuscany

The bus drove through more surreal landscapes to Sant’ Antimo Abbey, another beautifully imposing church, this one from the 9^th century.  Some believe that this abbey was created by Charlemagne as early as 781 AD, upon a promise to God that if He spared his army from a mysterious disease, he would build a church.  The Abbey has its own oboe player, who stopped playing when he realized that I was videotaping him. 

 

We met a darling British family who had taken a 6 month unpaid leave so that they could travel together with little 2 ½ year old Rufus and 6 month old “Baby Freddie.”  Rufus was a lady-killer with the Meredith students, as you can see here. He gave us a demonstration of British vs. American accents and it was adorable.

Montalcino – another lovely hillside town that still has its 13^th century walls.  It is particularly well known for its Brunello wine, which is delicious.  We were able to visit some small churches but the large cathedral was closed.  These towns are so steep that even without rain or ice, sometimes it is challenging to climb or descend them.  We spent some time in its lovely museum, formerly a convent, which contains almost exclusively 14^th-16^th century art by the Sienese.  We especially liked some non-religious statues, such as the mother wolf being climbed by Romulus and Remus – figures seen throughout this region due to Roman mythology.

 

Bagno Vignomi is a tiny town known for its hot springs, reputed to cure arthritis and other ailments, and its curative waters were enjoyed by Catherine of Siena and Lorenzo de’Medici.  We enjoyed the hot waters and noted that our tired feet were instantly better.

Pienza – This town was planned by Pope Pius II as the “ideal Renaissance town” and the small square in its center is named for him.  It contains, naturally, a beautiful cathedral, gorgeous palace, and lovely government buildings.  The cathedral has some major paintings, including Vecchitta’s Assumption.  This town has been discovered, for it was very touristy.  It contains nice antiques and art.  There are amazing views of the Orcia Valley and lots of photo opportunities. Apparently some of the street names were changed during the 19^th century to reflect the “ideal” – for instance, some streets named after Fortune, Love and The Kiss.