Italy: Pisa & Siena
Torre Pendente Panorama
The famous"Leaning Tower of Pisa". I didn't have an impression that it was actually that much inclined until I saw it for real. This condition has put some dangerous strain on the structure of the tower, so constant repairs and reinforcements are being made.
Fiume Arno in Pisa
Yes, the same river that runs through Firenze as well.
Siena, Piazza del Campo Panorama (VR)
High towers were always a symbol of power throughout Europe in Middle Ages, and here in Italy they also stood as a similar symbol. Lot of them were destroyed by ruling families in their power struggle, and Siena seems to have kept a couple still standing, like this one.
Duomo di Siena
Siena is not a small city, but in the race for influence there were stronger competitors than it. And maybe this is just the reason that this chatedral has stayed relatively less known, despite its rich architecture.
Siena Panorama
Siena city is under strict protection as a cultural heritage site. Although I guess that you can arrange the inside of your house any way you like, it is forbidden to make any kinds of alterations or modernization on the building facades. Only repairs are allowed and they have to be carried out by certified masons in order not to damage the appearance.
Siena Panorama (VR)
The outskirts of the Siena city, and the view over the green hilly Tuscany. On a small hill with trees is a tower, and to the right of it you can see the building of the University of Siena.
San Gimignano Panorama
San Gimignano is somewhat a typical village in Tuscany, crowded houses built on top of a hill. This one has been nicely preserved, along with a small fortress.
San Gimignano Piazza (VR)
The village center as in medival times, along with a water well in the center. In this place is the famous Italian gelateria (ice-cream shop) that claims to be a repeated world champion in the ice-cream maker competition. I can say their ice-cream is really good, but I liked the one from Nice better.
