Santa Maria della Scala

This is the dome of the beautiful duomo in Siena, Santa Maria della Scala.  The exterior is an architectural festival of green, white, pink and gold and dates back to 1215.  Inside you'll see the heads of 172, who've reigned from Peter to the 12th century peering down from above.  It's a spectacular church with many art treasures from Michelangelo to Bernani.

"Santa Maria della Scala"    © Kathy Dunham 2010

Cracked Knocker

I'm always on the look out for unusual door knockers.  And Italy has lots of them .  I spotted this one in Siena.  But it's the first one I've seen that is actually cracked in half.  Not sure what kind of knocking  it would take to crack a piece of thick brass but here's the proof.


"Cracked Knocker"     © Kathy Dunham 2010

Fiat Traffic Jam

Horns were honking and no one was moving.  It was quite a scene to see this mass of little Fiats in Siena, Italy just outside the Cathedral.  I think they were having a rally and in short order everyone moved on.

"Fiat Traffic Jam"    © Kathy Dunham 2010

"Real" Italian Deli

There's nothing better than a real Italian Deli, and this one in Siena, Italy, is no exception.  Just look at all the goodies in the window.  Proscuttio from Parma, salami, Panini and wine.  All that's missing is the cheese. 

"Real" Italian Deli    © Kathy Dunham 2010

Duomo of Siena

Today was one of the jewels of Tuscany.... Siena. A beautiful medieval town that looks today just like it did 700 years ago. A tight cluster of narrow streets and buildings, it's alive with locals and tourists alike. And the shopping!!! Lots of beautiful high end merchandise to spend money on.

We were lucky, only in the months of September and October do they uncover the inlaid marble floors. They are something to see so plan your trip accordingly if you want to see them. We were also allowed into the library where there are brightly colored frescoes that have never been retouched, and they're as vibrant today as they were when first painted. The outside facade is in black and white marble and these white marble statues adorn the outer edges above the doors. Another definite must see when in Italy!!

“Duomo of Siena” © Kathy Dunham 2009