Firenze - The Uffizi, The Bargello and Santa Croce

Today we woke up around 8AM, and the kids and I had a wonderful Hotel Casci breakfast. The hotel owner remembered us from 2 years ago. She made the hot chocolate that the kids have been craving since our first trip. We told her that mom did not sleep well because her pillow was too hard and the owner said she would find a soft one or even go buy one. She is so nice. After eating, we all walked in the rain about 20 minutes to the Uffizi. (Alex and Grandma bought umbrellas for 4 EU apiece.) This time we knew more of the artists whose works are displayed at the Uffizi so it was more meaningful. The Giottos were incredible - probably my favorite. It was also cool to see the Ghirlandaios - Michelangelo's first teacher. There is one Michelangelo and two DaVincis. Rachel's favorite was Botticelli's "Birth of Venus". Alex liked the ancient busts the best. Grandma continues to be amazed by everything in Italy. She's right - it is amazing!

After the Uffizi, we went to the underappreciated Bargello Museo. This is a museum that Rachel had really wanted to see last time we were here, but we didn't get a chance. It was really amazing. The highlights for me were the four Michelangelo sculptures, as well as Donatello's "David". I even took a sneaky picture to match the one I took of THE David last trip. Alex proclaimed that he prefers sculpture over painting while in the Bargello. I was really impressed with Alex in this museum. He knew what was housed here before we went in and was able to explain it and find it for us.

Once we were museumed out, we headed for lunch. we were able to find Trattoria Anita - a Rick Steves' recommendation. It was a great value for the price - 3 courses for 8 EU. But, it wasn't ZaZa!

Santa Croce was our last stop, before heading to the hotel for a rest. The kids and I remembered this from our last trip. It was again amazing to see the tombs of Michelangelo and Galileo, but not as awe-inspiring as seeing them for the first time. Much of Santa Croce is undergoing restoration right now. It is good to see Italy caring for its amazing treasures. The best part of Santa Croce for Rachel and I was picturing Lucy from "A Room with a View" losing her way in the church and meeting up with the Emersons.