Started the day at Santa Maria Novella. The entry to the cloister is flanked by bas reliefs of lambs. Graves and their flat stones are all around the perimeter of the cloister walk. Inside, the highlight for me was the Masaccio "Trinity." Instead of using two different colored stones to build the vaulted ceiling and ribs, the darker "stone" is painted on - a money saver. Sometimes the painted elements in these old churches remind me of prehistoric American Indian painted decoration.
Stopped at the Central Market for souvenirs. Decided on chocolate bars and shopping bags. I could have spent some more time here. Good place to pick up food for a do-it-yourself meal. Lovely food. The vendors were friendly and helpful. All in all, a happy place.
I decide to do Rick Steve's "Renaissance Walk" tour down the pedestrian via Calzaiuoli. The Museum of the Orsanmichele is open. Donatello again, so wonderful. In this room at the very top of the church, the brick vaults and ribs of the ceiling are bare so I can see how it is done.
On to the Ponte Vecchio, a disappointment except for the views of the Arno which seem timeless in spite of the new condos.
Back to Il Bargellino to pick up my suitcase. Onto the train to Milan and a bus to the airport Holiday Inn Express where I finally figure out how to keep the room's lights on with my key card. A quick sandwich and glass of wine in the lobby and - to bed. Up early in the morning to catch the shuttle to the huge and very confusing Milan airport. And home!
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