How Much for an Ice cream?

Shocked by the tourist prices around the centre of Florence, the Emperor was nevertheless greatly impressed to see Caravaggio's iconic Medusa. 

A fearsome and terrible image of visceral rage.  

(The good lady herself had obviously just paid for an ice cream) 

Lucca

The massive and exquisitely complete renaissance walls of Lucca (Italy) provide a beautifully impressive backdrop to any walk around this Tuscan jewel. (Only Ferrara in the east can rival an ancient defensive circuit of this period - larger but not as complete in its surviving heritage)

 
A long-term favourite with the emperor (my 5th visit and counting), Lucca will always be the dream place for an idyllic and imagined retirement.

Guarded by emblematic lions, this ancient, sleepy old Republic, offers a true haven of great charm. Both in and out of season it has so much history and beauty to offer.

The Luchesse skyline: ancient, rustic, grand and chaotic. 

Rustic Eating - Ferrara Italy

A rustic lunch of considerable quality enjoyed in the beautiful walled town of Ferrara, Italy. 

The following main course was the regionally famous pumpkin and sage ravioli (Cappellacci di Zucca). The best and most enjoyable meal I have ever had in the old country. 

As part of a month long honeymoon from Venice to Syracuse, the old walled city of Ferrara was a stand-out memory for this Emperor. 

Such a chilled University town with loads of old history and culture. 

I very much hope to return one day. 

Lake Como

[A Sleepy Mountian Lane. Lake Como, Italy]