“Everything about Florence seems to be colored with a mild violet, like diluted wine.” – Henry James

The Sunday Scribbles is a weekly post sharing an excerpt from my travel journal.

•• Florence, Italy ••

“Mom and Dad are in Florence! We gave them a taste of budget travel by going on a “tips-based” city walking tour. We bopped around the city, visiting churches, museums, landmarks and bridges while learning some helpful history of the city. I loved the third church we stopped to see — the Church of Santa Croce. The façade is beautiful — made of white, green and pink marble. However, it’s the shiny blue Star of David at the top that captured my curiosity and infatuation. To me, the Star symbolizes trust, friendship and acceptance among those of different faiths and beliefs. The church was built ages ago, and even today we need a little reminder of this. 

The Santa Maria del Fiore cathedral is also magnificent. The main colors of the façade are green, red and white, and all the intricate details of the exterior are incredibly impressive. 

When it was completed in the 15th century, it was the largest church in the world. Today, it is the second largest in Italy and third wordwide. What makes it so impressive is the massive burnt red dome, which can be seen from anywhere in the city. There are so many fantastic viewing points! The interior of the dome is quite impressive too. It’s a painting of the Last Judgment.

My parents are loving Florence, especially Dad. We’re eating tons of delicious food [ cheese, olive oil, truffles, pizza, gelato, bread ] and drinking fabulous red wine. Chianti is my favorite! It’s been fun simply wandering through the small, winding streets, sipping coffee in the piazzas and window shopping through the unique, charming boutiques and shops.

I am not ready for us to leave Florence. But luckily, we rubbed the pig’s nose, which means we will return to the city one day!”