by Jacqueline S.
After the CCI posse left the majestic city of Florence we traveled with great anticipation to San Gimignano. After a short bus ride we arrived at this medieval city. San Gimignano, like many Italian cities, has breathtaking vistas, monuments, and other sights to see.
The drive seemed everlasting due to the curvy roads, but it did make trekking through the city more enjoyable because we really wanted to get off the bus.
We ambushed every souvenir shop to find the perfect gift for our loved ones back in Canada. After shopping, CCI students enjoyed a delicious Italian lunch at one of the many local cafes and, of course, later devoured generous helpings of what is reputed as Europe's best gelato.
Sadly, we were only able to marvel at and appreciate San Gimignano’s elegant attractions for just two short hours. For my part, and with unanimous agreement from all my friends, we wished there had been an opportunity to stay in San Gimignano longer.
This beautiful city not only provides an elegant background for pictures and portraits, it is also a place steeped in history where unforgettable memories are created.
After our brief but meaningful two hours in San Gimignano we boarded the bus to leave this exquisite city and departed for Siena.
When we arrived in Siena we split off into several groups. Each one of us was immediately astounded by the beauty of the city and was anxious to fully explore this angelic place.
Siena is rich with history, life, and beauty. There were so many stories and so much history to be discovered even during the brief two and a half hours that we were there.
The church of St. Catherine was one of the first landmarks we visited. The Holy Relic of the Sacred Head of Saint Catherine of Siena has been conserved in the Basilica since 1383. Numerous official and historical documents have established its veracity. The relic is actually the real head of Saint Catherine of Siena.
The main Piazza Del Campo is one of the most famous if not the most famous piazzas in all of Italy. It is renowned worldwide for its beauty and architectural integrity. The twice-a-year horse race, the “Palio di Siena”, is held around the perimeter of the Piazza. The races have been held annually on July 2nd and August 16th since the fourteenth century.
Ultimately, every student from CCI was both heartbroken and delighted as each of us were both sad to leave this fascinating city but very much ready to go home.
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