Step by step sunset and a bit more research into the Renaissance

Mark Twain stated: “Far off in the Valley Lay Florence, pink, gray and brown, with the enormous ancient dome of the Cathedral dominating the center of the city like a big balloon; ...rising above the horizon a fringe of mountains surging on high. Sprinkled with enumerable white villas ... After nine months of familiarity with this panorama, I still believe as I did at first that this is the most beautiful image on the planet, the most enchanting to look at.”

Watching the buildings, river, mountains and sky change colors over the period of 2 hours was definitely a highlight and made up for the rest of the day of art history activities (or missed activities as the case sadly was for the Medici Capella).

Photos taken from Piazzale Michelangelo, unless otherwise noted.

FYI... those are snow capped mountains in the background and yes, people were sunbathing today along the Arno river. Like summer out.

Two views from the Uffizi Gallery's deck first...

















This is a reflection of the Duomo, but you can see the people standing at the top in it if you click to enlarge :)


Now the step-by-step....