Pisa

and admired the splendid buildings including the Bapistry,

the Duomo (or cathedral)

and of course the world famous Leaning Tower.

The tower was completed in 1350 and it even started to tilt during the construction of the third storey. 

Florence

We met April at the British Institute and had a tour around the library.

During the weekend we explored other parts of the city. 

First stop was the Duomo, the cathedral which dominates the city.

The nineteenth century marble facade.

The main entrance is very ornate.

We walked round the side to the campanile.

It is clad in white, green and pink Tuscan marble and even at night it looks dramatic.

The dome of the cathedral is enormous and is a famous landmark of  Florence.

The Piazza della Signoria

On our way to the Uffiizi art gallery we walked through the Piazza della Signoria, which is full of amazing statues.

                                        April and I soon spotted Michelangelo's David

so we went up closer to admire the celebrated sculpture.

From the Uffizi's cafe terrace there is a lovely view of Florence's skyline 

                          and the neighbouring Palazzo Vecchio

The following day we walked along the River Arno.

We crossed the Ponte Vecchio

As its name suggests this is the oldest bridge in Florence and was built in 1345.  It was very crowded and was lined either side with jewellery shops.

We decided to take a stroll away from the hustle and bustle in a southerly direction.

We followed the steep path and climbed up to the Piazzale Michelangelo and (whilst catching our breath!) we admired the view.

Then it was onwards and upwards to the Romanesque San Miniato al Monte church.

At the top of the steps we came face to face with the beautiful marble facade.

We thoroughly enjoyed our trip to Florence and I'm sure we'll be back again soon.

See the photos from our visit to Florence and Siena  in 2006  and Florence, Verona and Lake Garda in 2011.