Castelnuovo di Garfagnana, Tuscany, Italy
We woke to drizzle at villa Bertagni. Internet search revealed that the weather was better down the valley and further south, so we decided to head in that direction after breakfast. Leaving in two cars again, we headed first for Pisa to see the leaning tower and then on to Lucca for lunch and to see what we could see.
As we headed south and west toward Pisa the drizzle stopped and cloud lifted. Although cool and overcast, we had the better of the day, as when we returned to Castelnuovo later in the day the rain returned.
We found a car park at Pizza close by the walled entrance to the tower and cathedral. We were immediately accosted by African traders on foot, who seem to be everywhere in Italy and perhaps Europe. Their trade is not permitted, but the carabinieri have a hard time policing this blight as they are mobile, thick skinned, and well networked by cellphone so get warned of any approaching threat.
After a caffe and snack we headed for the sights of Pizza. The size of the crowds were surprising considering the weather, but not overwhelming. As we approached the tower, not all our party wanted to ascend; so Rena, Zia Franca, and our family bought tickets - there was just enough vacancy in the 12pm booking; so timing was perfect.
During the ascent and at the top, Meg and Alice were fearless. I can't say the same for myself; whether due to age or affects of the Christchurch quake, I cannot say I was entirely comfortable with the experience of the cramped and populated stairway and the sloping viewing platform at the top. The decent was fascinating, with the going becoming easy then harder depending on the direction of the tower's lean.
Our tickets also gave us entry into the cathedral. This was truly a magnificent spectacle, the art and devotion of that period was something else. We returned to our cars and headed for Lucca.
The day warmed as we arrived at Lucca. Zio Massimo was our guide on this part of the trip; he and Zia Concetta knew Lucca reasonably well, as it is their favourite place to holiday. We made our way through the wall and headed for the centre of Lucca, Piazzaa Anfiteatro, for lunch. The Zie chose our place to dine, choosing because the staff that greeted us were Roman.
Following lunch Zio Antonio, Alice and I climbed the Torre delle Ore, which was topped with trees and provides a view over the walled Lucca. Then we shopped - well browsed a bit. Rob bought a leather travel bag and Allan a leather belt. We decided to finish our visit to Lucca with a walk along a couple of sections of the wall; then out where we came in.
On returning to villa Bertagni; another meal prepared by the Zias and lively conversation
2025-05-22