Tuscany
![](9-5-10a.jpg)
One of seventeen contrada (neighborhoods) marches through the hill city of Siena, bearing a coat of arms, to celebrate their tradition as a medieval military company.
![](9-5-10b.jpg)
In the magnificent Piazza del Campo.
![](9-5-10c2.jpg)
A pizza dinner on a balmy evening in Piazza del Campo.
![](9-5-10d.jpg)
Palazzo Pubblico tower, built in the early 14th century.
![](9-5-10e.jpg)
The Siena cathedral (Duomo) is a stunning example of medieval architecture. It was built in the 13th and 14th centuries.
![](9-5-10f.jpg)
An unusual decoration on the outside of a Siena home.
![](9-5-10g.jpg)
More pizza in the piazza.
![](9-5-10h.jpg)
On a quaint street outside of Palazzina Cesira, a terrific B&B in the hill town of Montalcino. We stay for four nights in what is essentially a private home with a few guest rooms. Robert and Lucilla are incredible hosts.
![](9-5-10j.jpg)
Exploring the narrow streets of Montalcino at dusk.
![](9-5-10k.jpg)
Montalcino skyline after a thunderstorm.
![](9-5-10i.jpg)
View across Tuscan countryside just before a late dinner in Montalcino.
![](9-5-10m.jpg)
Day trip to the walled town of San Quirico.
![](9-5-10l.jpg)
Pam's reaction when I said I bought her this villa in Tuscany.
![](9-5-10n.jpg)
Investigating a vineyard on the outskirts of Montalcino.
![](9-5-10o.jpg)
Grapes only a couple of weeks before harvesting. Our innkeeper arranged a private tour of the small Poggio di Sotto winery, producer of a high-quality Brunello di Montalcino wine.
![](9-5-10p.jpg)
Late afternoon stroll through a vineyard.
![](9-5-10r.jpg)
On our way back to the inn.
![](9-5-10s.jpg)
Beginning of a long walk near Saint Antimo's Abbey, a Benedictine monastery not far from Montalcino.
![](9-5-10t.jpg)
Quiet road on a beautiful late summer day in central Italy.
![](9-5-10u.jpg)
We pass several vineyards along the way.
![](9-5-10v.jpg)
Just below the town of Castelnuovo dell Abate.
![](9-5-10w.jpg)
We explore the hilltop town.
![](9-5-10x.jpg)
More natives enjoying the afternoon.
![](9-5-10y.jpg)
Outside the nearby Abbey.
![](9-11-10c2.jpg)
Benedictine monks in Saint Antimo's Abbey. We also experienced the Gregorian chant of the monks at the Sunday morning service. From their website: "Visitors come not only for this beautiful abbey that is unique in all of Italy, but also to savour a moment of peace and spirituality. At Saint Antimo you can once again find the door to your heart."