Funny how things turn out, as Sienna is one of Stan's most favourite cities, especially the famous Piazza il Campo. With is large sloping terrace bordered by a series of medieval palaces, on a sunny day it is truly beautiful.

Getting there was fine but we struggled to work out where to park. Then once parked, how to get in the city. The Italians are not great on providing clear signage. We wandered around, visited the Palazzo del Campo, still a local government building, but we took in the museum where the original governors met. Once again, more beautiful frescos, grand rooms and naked statues. We resisted the temptation of climbing the 505 stairs up to the top of the bell tower. Lots of nice shops to visit, as well as lots of interesting people to watch. We even had a light lunch in the Piazza!

We admired the duomo ( cathedral) from te outside, the blue and white striped pattern typical of Tuscany, this one built in gothic style, the only such cathedral in Italy. Surprisingly we found our way back to the car park. Only to find that the hire car had been scratched on the front. Now I know I didn't do it, as we examined the car as I parked it, as it did not quite fit into the space, it wouldn't fit into any of the spaces as they are too small, most cars edging over the lines. Lucky the guy scared me into the insurance waiver! And that Stan won't read this blog before I see him. He is currently in flight heading to meet us in Venice.

We enjoyed an afternoon dip in our pool at the villa and antipasto and insalata dinner outside. Then played cards. It has been good to relax a bit.