Roman Amphitheater

Roman amphitheaters can be found all over Italy and in many European countries but this little treasure sits just below the hilltop town of Volterra in Tuscany.  Known for it's alabaster, the small town of Volterra has this hidden treasure that many tourists miss. In fact, many tourists miss seeing the town as it's quite small and a bit out of the way.  But I assure you that it is worth the visit.

"Roman Amphitheater"      © Kathy Dunham 2011

Arrivederchi Tuscany

Today is our last day in the Tuscan countryside and it was topped off with this beautiful sunset. Tomorrow we stop at Lucca on our way to the Cinque Terre. More adventures to follow.



“Arrivederchi Tuscany”     © Kathy Dunham 2010

Tuscan Countryside

The Tuscan countryside looks like a patchwork quilt. Patches of green, rows of vines and olive trees and freshly plowed fields. Add to that the wonderful food and wine and you'll have an experience like no other.



“Tuscan Countryside” © Kathy Dunham 2010

Clock Tower and Chimneys

The old town of Pienza in Tuscany, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  This special designation is given to areas or places that UNESCO believes need to be preserved for future generations.  The town was originally wiped out during the plague and Pope Pius II paid for the complete renovation in the 1400s.  But one of the great features of this charming hilltop town is the pecorino.  This fantastic sheep's milk cheese beats parmasean far as I'm concerned.

"Clock Tower and Chimneys"   © Kathy Dunham 2010

Pitchers for Sale

The Italians love to display their wares outside to attract potential buyers.  And this ceramic shop was no exception.  It certainly adds charm to the small towns we visited while in Tuscany. 

'Pitchers for Sale"    © Kathy Dunham 2010

Magenta Heart

I normally don't find orchids in sunlight so during breakfast in Tuscany one morning, the drapes had been pulled and the sun spilled through the windows onto the orchids on our dining room table. 

"Magenta Heart"   © Kathy Dunham 2009

Down the Road

Driving around Tuscany offers never ending vignettes. At every turn in the road there's another picturesque scene waiting to be photographed or painted. Thank goodness for digital cameras. In the days of film, I would have run out.

"Down the Road" © Kathy Dunham 2009