Firenze!

This past weekend I went on my first trip! API (the program I went through) took all of the students studying in Rome on a weekend trip to Florence. Florence is home to the original David Statue, The Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore, and many more beautiful sites we couldn't get to in one weekend! 

The Statue of David is to say the least, absolutely incredible. Although no photographs are allowed to be taken of the statue my crafty friend Trevor snuck some shots that turned out amazing.

David is among a plethora of fantastic works of art in the Accademia Gallery but is definitely the most impressive. David stands 14 feet and 3 inches tall and was started in 1501 by Michelangelo. With technology we have today tiny sensors were placed on the back of David to monitor cracks and any movement that may occur. It's amazing that this piece of history still exists and I hope it will always be considered such a prize possession of european history. 

The Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore is better known as The Duomo and is the most beautiful building I have EVER seen in my life. Pictures don't do it justice... but here are a few :) 

The Duomo stands almost 300 feet tall and was started in 1296 but didn't open until 1436. The immense detail of the gothic style building was incredibly impressive. Every inch of the building is covered with intricate detail. This next picture is from atop of a small building that had a cute little Cafe at the top so one could enjoy a cappuccino while marveling at the beauty of Florence. 

As we were leaving Florence we stopped at a spot that had an amazing skyline view where you can clearly see the importance of The Duomo as it is the prominent building. It was breathtaking! 

After we left Florence we stopped in a small very old town called San Gimignano. Which also had an amazing spot for unbelievable movie-like views. 

We then climbed the tallest tower in the town and saw an overview of the town and to say I felt small would be an understatement. The world is so incredibly beautiful and I'm yet to see any of it! 

My trip to Florence was wonderful. I'm beginning to make friendships that are making this trip even more wonderful and I'm loving every second of being astonished constantly. 

Until next time, 

Emily :)