Abbey of Sant' Antimo

I don't think there are words to describe a wonderful opportunity we had today. Our guide, Simone, took us to the Abbey of Sant' Antimo in the Orcia Valley of Tuscany. This 1,200 year old Benedictine Abbey, isolated in a rural area south of Siena, is an architectural delight of simplicity. But the best part was being treated to the actual service of a Gregorian Chant. This isn't a performance, but rather a religious ceremony. We've seen a lot of spectacular sights on this trip but I think this has to be the highlight for me. I've never experienced anything like it. The acoustics were perfect and nothing could be better than the original setting.

“Abbey of Sant' Antimo” © Kathy Dunham 2009

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

Windows in Assisi

The church in Assisi has been marvelously restored after all the damage it suffered in a major earthquake many years ago. The beauty of the church is not in the outside facade, but rather in the spectacular interior. There are three levels high and each one is magnificent.

The tomb of St. Francis is at the very lowest layer and no matter what your beliefs or religion, it touches your soul. He was the saint who believed that all living things are God's creatures and should be treated accordingly. He is known as the patron saint of animals. We weren't allowed to take pictures inside so I'm sharing this image of a beautiful window in trhe old town of Assisi, and if you look closely at the relief on the left of the windows, you'll see an image of a mean looking dog. I guess it's their version of “Beware of the Dog”. But it's awfully high to do much good.

“Windows in Assisi” © Kathy Dunham 2009