More of Florence

David, at the Acadamia was spectacular as were all the other works of art. We had artichoke risotto and clam linguini. We went to Piazzo de San Giovanni and admired the church which must cover 2 city blocks and has bronze doors which are its claim to fame. But I am understating the opulence and grandeur of this place because I simply cannot begin to adequately describe it. We stopped in Palattzio del Vecchio which was the main square hosting speeches, celebrations, riots and protests, political uprisings and public execution of that particular ringleader by fire. Today it was calmer and just filled with the usual swarms of tourists watching human statues and being accosted by mimes. The Medici Family had created a public square where all could view the amazing statues and appreciate their grandeur. They are working consistently in Firenze on restoration of all the great art including these statues. Dinner as usual takes all evening, and is an event rather than a meal. Anita says there are no bad meals in Italy and I am convinced she is right. Today we went to Uffuzi, the biggest art museum, hosting the work of Bottecelli, da Vinci, Donnatello and many other greats that were sponsored by the Medici's. Light lunch in the square under the umbrellas waiting for the showers to stop then off to the Church Michaelangelo attended, St Croce. Leonardo, Galileo, Dante, Machiavelli, the Medici's, Napoleon's relatives he sent to rule Italy and countless others entombed here. Then the rain opened up as we trekked home in the umbrella cluttered streets. Quiet evening at the Hotel Splendid. Proseco and pino gregio are particularly nice, as are the cappuccinos.