Nestled in the hills of the Arezzo province, you will find one of the oldest and most enchanting towns in Tuscany...Cortona. Winding through its streets, which can be quite steep at times, provides you with a glimpse into pre-Roman Etruscan life, and will reward you with some of the most breathtaking views of the countryside.
Admittedly, I do not know a lot about this beautiful city (therefore more photos & less "talk"). I was drawn to it, like many others, by the famous movie Under the Tuscan Sun, based on Frances Mayes' popular book. Kind of cheeky I know, but were it not for this, I may have skipped this beautiful town and that would have been most regrettable. So thank you Ms. Mayes.
As I explored Cortona on foot, I quickly removed myself from the preconceptions based on the movie and immersed myself in the pulse of the town, which was slow in an appreciative way of life. People were taking the time to connect with their neighbors, like the men of Cortona in Piazza della Repubblica.
There were artists working in their studios, cafes and restaurants getting ready to open, locals getting a haircut, and small shops selling their wares. I popped into un piccolo negozio and the friendly owner offered me herbal tea and shared her beautiful little store with me. I purchased some handmade soaps and something that would change my life when I returned to Firenze - an oil to ward off the zanzare! (mosquitoes). Grazie mille!!
This was daily life, in a most spectacular setting. In catching these special moments, I knew that I must return to Cortona. She deserves further exploration, with the luxury of a slow pace, so that I can drink in all of her beauty, through all of my senses. She deserves more than just a day trip...and so do I. Ritornerò. Certamente.
Big Love & Buon Weekend, PatriciaG
As always, I'd love to hear from you on this or any of my previous blogs. If you feel inspired, please write me in the Comments section of the blog. And I invite you to visit my Etsy Shop where most of my photos are available for sale in Photo Note Cards and Frame-able prints. Grazie! Ciao!