Italy is well known as the home of the Roman Empire. Nearly everywhere in this country is filled with ancient history, and stories are waiting at every corner, waiting to be discovered.

Quick Facts:

Cities

During my trip, I was lucky enough to be able to visit Rome, Florence, San Gimignano, La Spezia, Pisa, and the Cinque Terra.

Rome

Rome, or more well known as "The Eternal City."  Rome was one of my favorite cities that we visited on this trip. It was so full of life, and all of the sights were filled with splendor of the Ancient Empire that once stood here. Every single rock in that city may well be an artifact from the ancient times! It was just so interesting to me because I had mainly studied the Roman Empire in school this year, so to actually see what I was learning about was awesome for me.

Florence

This city is most well known as the center of the Renaissance, brought about by the powerful Medici family. Every aspect of this city has so much history, as well as many different works of art. For instance, it is here that Michelangelo's David resides in the Academia. Florence has so much culture, and such a unique quality about it.

San Gimignano

San Gimignano is the city of the many towers. Nearly 72 towers from the Renaissance still remain standing today. The wine Vernacchi is made in this city, and the city also has an abundance of saffron.

La Spezia

There wasn't a lot that we did in La Spezia, mainly because we only stayed there one night. It's a rather smaller town, but I really liked it's quaintness.

Pisa

Pisa, most famous for the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Not many people know that the Leaning Tower of Pisa is just a bell tower for the adjoining Church and Baptistery. It's quite a sight though, and the adjoining church and baptistery are quite beautiful on the inside. Inside the Baptistery, there was an echo demonstration. It was really neat. Although we only got to stay here a couple of hours, it was still such an event to even be there.

Cinque Terra

La Cinque Terra was our last Italian area. This area was just gorgeous. All of the houses are built around the hilltops, and the boat ride that we took gave us all the best picture opportunities. I felt that this area was one of the most beautiful areas that we had visited on the entire trip.