ITALIA #8 ASSISI

Leaving Tuscany behind, as difficult as it was, brought us to other wonderful places. We traveled south in our party van on the way back to Rome with a 2-night stop in Assisi.

 The little town of Cortona, recommended by our tour guide in Rome, was beautiful and picturesque

 Perugia was another quick but worthwhile stop on our way to Assisi

 On the first evening in Assisi, we ate at this great restaurant and later walked its narrow ancient streets.

 Basilica di San Francesco, monumental but simple cathedral, a true testament to San Francesco di Assisi. Relatively little marble or gold is present, but instead, a large rustic wooden crucifix hanging from the ceiling above the altar is all that's needed to feel his presence. A sense of peace and spirituality is palpable in this beautiful town, perhaps our favorite during the trip. Of course, it helps that San Francesco has been our favorite saint before our visit.

 Many priests and nuns are visible throughout the town. This particular group of nuns, including one wearing a unique habit and boots, huddled in one of the narrow streets

 Chiesa di Sanat Maria sopra Minerva (Tempio di Minerva). Gold and marble are highly visible in this church

 Dinner high atop one of the tallest peaks of Monte Subasio. The 3 mile gravel/dirt road to get there seemed more like 10.

La Zuppa Inglese, the B&B we stayed at 5 miles outside of Assisi. The owners, Alessandro and Laura were wonderful hosts. Laura prepares  a fantastic homemade breakfast for her guests, including fruit tarts, cakes, egg/bacon dishes, and other delicious treats. JIR

ITALIA #7 TUSCANY #6

The region of Tuscany extends west to the Mediterranean. On this particular day, we did a loop, heading northwest from our villa. We visited the famous, but highly overrated Tower of Pisa, then headed south to the port town of Piombino, finally heading east and north to close the loop.

 Piombino, ferry gateway to the island of Elba, where Napoleon was once imprisoned. Interesting port town with a strong Muslim presence.

 Colorful ferry departs Piombino towards Elba, silhouetted in the background.

 Photographing wildflowers is one of my favorite diversions. Having chosen lodging in the country afforded us the opportunity to experience the benefits of Nature, including the enjoyment of Italian wildflowers.

 Very young grapes can be seen on this grapevine

Another beautiful flower poses back at Castello di Montalto. JIR

ITALY #6 TUSCANY #5

Castello di Brolio has been owned by the same family for hundreds of years. It sits atop a hill with one of the best views we witnessed in Tuscany. The large acreage surrounding the castle supports an extensive winery and olive oil operation owned by the family. A tasting room located in the small town near the castle is upscale and well run.

 The castle was originally built around a monastery. The old chapel is small but unique

 This part of the castle is still the actively occupied residence of the Brolio family, and therefore, off limits inside

 On our way back to our villa we stopped at the quaint tiny town of Villa de Sesta, where we continued our wine tasting. JIR