Tuscany was given a short reprieve , 4 days in the yellow zone, before Christmas. I took the opportunity to leave the village and visit Florence to see the city decorated for Christmas. I am not usually here at this time of the year so it was a special treat.
The sun shone briefly as I arrived in Florence. I checked into the hotel and headed out immediately. The city was quiet and I had the usually busy streets almost to myself. It unusual to see the Ponte Vecchio without crowds. The views from the bridge are always wonderful.
I wandered slowly towards the Duomo, stopping along the way to enjoy this beautiful city.
The sun disappeared and it began to drizzle.
As the lights come on in the evening the city becomes even more enchanting.
Via Tornabuoni is especially lovely.
Palazzo Strozzi has a message for us.
The Ponte Vecchio is transformed with a stunning lighting display.
Rinascente’s windows are filled with vintage Neapolitan nativity scenes.
This one is life size.
The facade is lit up, brightening the Piazza Republica on a drizzly night.
I walked back across the Santa Trinita bridge to Piazza Santo Spirito where I was staying.
Here is the Christmas tree in Piazza Santo Spirito.
…and the view of it from my hotel window.
I stayed at Palazzo Guadagni,an elegant hotel in Piazza Santo Spirito. It is in a gorgeous palazzo with a balcony overlooking the piazza with views over the rooftops of Florence.
I can see that this will become a regular place for me to stay.
http://www.palazzoguadagni.com
As I walked to the station the next morning I crossed the Ponte Vecchio again. I doubt I will see it like this very often.
I had one more look at the Christmas tree at the Duomo before heading home for 10 days of lockdown.
Merry Christmas everyone. Let’s hope 2021 is better for all of us!