Day 18
Today is a “free” day for the USD students, meaning no class. We scheduled another AirBnB experience (recommended by Nick and Camille from their honeymoon in September last year) called the “Hidden Gems” tour by Sandro and his wife Ludovica. We met in Palazzo Vecchio where we heard the rich and deep history of the Medici family and the statues in the piazza. Ludovica and Sandro shared their story of each growing up in/near Florence and being treated to history lessons from parents and grandparents, which they graciously now pass on. We walked and talked for 3 hours – enjoyed caffe, a visit to Museo dell'Officina Profumo - Pharmaceutical of Santa Maria Novella (one of the oldest pharmacies in the world, whose origins go back to 1221), and a visit to Richard Ginori – an exquisite porcelain shop located in an old palace with absolutely stunning table ware, art, etc (Jan: we were reminded of the beautiful Pickard china you have shown us – took the picture of hand painted tableware for you!) Another treat was looking inside the Via della Studio – where the Opera del Duomo Workshop is located. Here is where master artists restore, maintain, and conserve the great works in the Duomo. It is rare that the door covering the windows to the studio are open and they were today – what a treat! We ended our tour at Fratelli Zanobini – a wine bar owned by friends of Sandro. He remembers his grandfathers coming here every day for a glass of wine. The owners produce their own wine “Le Lame” – I had the Rose, Brian and Greg had the Chianti – all were excellent. Ludovica brought us the traditional Florentine snack called “coccoli” (translates to “pamper” – as in how it makes your stomach feel!) – a fried pizza dough filled with ham and cheese – yum! Gelateria de Neri (just around the corner from our apratment) re-opened today after the holiday so Brian and Greg tried it out on the way home – another winner! We are planning a quiet evening in to prepare for class tomorrow.