It had been 18 years since I had walked in awe of the medieval buildings of Siena - today, as then, the city felt untouched by time - yet somehow thriving in a bustling confluence of residents and visitors. The bakeries, gelaterias and coffee shops were brimming with patrons, the hustle and bustle of the crowded, narrow walkways adding to the atmosphere.
The October sun slowly travelled its way across the buildings making “burnt Siena” the colour of the moment. All augmented by the ironwork, coloured shutters, flower boxes and gargoyles of the town’s architecture - and of course Siena's magnificent unfinished cathedral. 
Piazza del Campo, site of the biannual horserace and the central part of the city was full of people enjoying the sunshine and watching the comings and goings in the piazza’s cafes and restaurants.
The surrounding Tuscan countryside was picture perfect - gently sloping hills scattered with vineyards, olive groves, cypress trees, farmlands and winding roads. The red clay roofs of the farmhouses and the yellow hues from the buildings’ walls positively glowing in the sunlight.
This couldn’t have been more so when we viewed the landscape from the walled hilltop village of San Gimignano. A golden glaze bathed the countryside in the late afternoon sun, church bells rang in the distance and we thought how wonderful to have shared those moments in time.
1 comment:
Wow, I really love your travel blog! I especially enjoyed looking at the photographs. The low November sun made for some dramatic lighting. I love the photo of the woman in black walking down the empty road and the colourful gloves displayed in the shop window. Looks like Doug really enjoyed sampling all the fine Italian cheeses and wine! You both look so happy.
Jeff K
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