There was the Museo dell'Opera, the Battistero, the Oratorio di S. Bernardino (which we never could find), the Cripta. But most amazing was the Duomo itself where EVERY surface was carved, painted or inlayed. We had to finally move on, caught up with Lisa and had lunch in Siena's piazza, il Campo and then took in a few shops ourselves.
We didn't drive straight home, thanks to a missed turn near Sinalunga, and ended up taking the backroads, in true Anderson fashion. By the time we found our way back to Piegaro, we decided to go further and get dinner at the local pizzeria in Tavernelle. It really was the perfect thing after such a long day. Back to il Forno Une and a swim and then off to bed.
As Colleen would say, "another day in paradise . . . "
Ardel, Lori and Lisa in front of the ornate doors of the Basilica, with their inlays of cast bronze.
One of the many paintings inside the Basilica. These were amazing because of their 20' size.
One of the many altars in the Basilica. All carved of marble with inlays of marble and smaller paintings and bronze.
We walked up a TINY spiral staircase (along with many others) to see this view from the Duomo tower. Going up was something . . . but coming down was CRAZY since there were many others working their way up at the same time. We got to know some of the other tourista very well!
View from the top of the watchtower at the very top, overlooking the apartments below.
Full side view of the the Cathedral. You can see the dome is covered with scaffolding because it's currently being renovated.
View of il Campo (the piazza), with the bell tower and surrounding buildings. This piazza is the largest we've seens so far. Even in May, before tourist season hits, it was pretty busy.
View of the front of the Duomo.
One of about 20 altars inside. It was hard to photograph because the interior is so dim, but as your eyes adjust, there is something to see where ever you look.
This dias was all carved of marble. We guessed that it was where the high priest overwatched the service and granted blessings. Very posh.
The cathedral is built from white and black marble in alternating stripes. Every surface is ornate with carvings, inlays or painting. The ceiling looked to be over 150' high. Imagining this being constructed by craftsmen of the time boggles the mind. No power, no computers, just people.
The library was one of the more lighted spaces, so you can see better how the ceilings are painted throughout the cathedral.
These friezes lined the libary walls, here are two of about 20.
Even the floors were embellished. These are marble inlays to depict biblical times.
We saw a living sculpture (cute italian guy).
When Lori put a coin in his hat, he called her back and kissed her hand. Very gallant, no?
Very hot in the piazza. Imagine il Campo in August, 20 degrees warmer and full of tourists and you can guess why May is the time of year to visit.
Most everyone was holding a gelato as they sat and people-watched.
Walking through the ancient streets of Siena, a group of bicyclers rode past. These were the first, but there were probably 75 in all, peddling up the steep streets as the crowds parted to let them by.
Dan took a picture of us all (he tried to, but his arm isn't long enough) just outside the cathedral. Behind us is a close up of how the walls are carved in the pink and white marble.
In the Baptista, the altar was painted with ornate gold leaf
Another beautiful ceiling in the Baptista
Kids today think they're so out there with their skull t-shirts and jewelry. But this 13th century floor of inlayed marble shows they're really just retro.
Ornate painted ceiling of the Baptista
Painting above the altar of the Baptista
Pet of the day, a chihaua that was tiny and wouldn't hold still for a photograph. Cute though.
Painted masks in one of the shops.
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