Much like Sicily, we didn’t spend nearly enough time in Florence. As a result, we missed seeing some of the major museums and touristy attractions.
However, I managed to snap a few photos of the awesome architecture.
But the most memorable part of all was climbing the 463 frigging steps up into the dome of the cathedral (known as Il Duomo).
It was well worth the effort. And believe me, when I say effort, I mean it. I still can’t believe I climbed all those steps — with gammy foot and hand and all!
And once you get started, you gotta keep going, because there’s no bleeding elevator! Whoa!


Breathtaking views, aren’t they?
And here’s the Michelangelo statue David, which we could have seen in a museum in Florence. I have no idea where this photo was taken, but there it is!
After a short stay in Florence, it was onto Venice (or Venezia) …
Originally published on Medium.
PS: Happy Valentine’s Day!