Tuscany was like a trip to the country. There was a distinguishable pace from that of Florence. Even in September the hillsides were green with vineyards although the sunflower crops had faded. This picture was taken in an olive vineyard with San Gimignano in the background. Legend states that the city dates back to 63 BC.
The city is surrounded by walls that are covered with capers.
Towers in Tuscany meant power and 13 of the 72 towers from the 14th century remain.
Some have been cut to size because the residents were afraid they might collapse.
Today 8,000 residents remain and the city hosts more tourists.
We stopped in one of the pastry stores and
bought pine nut almond (pignoli) cookies. Very tasty!
And as a habit by now, we stopped for gelato at Gelateria di Piazza.
Claudia told us the best gelato in Italy was here in San Gimignano,
a claim made by many regions, however, she claims the gelato from this shop
was served to Michelle Obama during her visit to Europe.
I tried the Crèma di Santa Fina, (An orange cream flavoured with BOURBON vanilla pods (Madagascar), San Gimignano SAFFRON pistils and Pisa PINE NUTS.) Yummy!
It was market day the day of our visit, and the piazza was filled with vendors
selling fabric table cloths, purses and clothes, kitchen items, plants, meats, fish and vegetables.
It was a mix of souvenirs and household products for the residents.
I bought my mom a table cloth that was made, ironically,
in Russia and of course, one for me, made in Italy.
I didn't try the roasted pig, although it appeared to be
popular. I just couldn't get past him staring at me.
We climbed to an elevated part of the town for a beautiful view. As we climbed
we were serenaded by a harpist and a fellow playing an interested reed instrument. A very beautiful view and this was just the start of our first day in Tuscany.
We didn't have time to go to Monteriggioni, we had a wine tour to get to.
Maybe next trip!
