Early this evening Alessandro and I walked up to Piazzale Michelangiolo to take a few pictures. We wanted to arrive before the sun set to see if the light was any better than the other day when I went up alone. The parking lot had many cars and a few people were standing outside eating gelato (ice cream).
As we walked along the sidewalk toward the corner of the piazzale closest to the city, I looked out onto the countryside. The sun setting behind the clouds caught my eye, so I took a picture of it. It was the first time I took a picture of this area because I generally love taking photos of the city as the sky grows dark and the lights come on. I loved seeing the unique mix of colors, but after I took a couple of pictures, we continued along the sidewalk.
Some people were already sitting on the wide steps looking out onto the city while others were taking photos of the city. We found an empty spot against the low wall and stood there waiting for the sun to set. Alessandro talked to me about how he has many memories of coming to Piazzale Michelangiolo with his friends.
I can't imagine what it might be like growing up in Florence. I am a little surprised that a person who was born and raised in a city can love it and find it beautiful. I thought that a person would become blasé about Florence. I know that when I tell some Florentines how much I love Florence, they tell me about all the things they dislike. I see that, but I still love it.
No place is perfect, and certainly there are a few things I would like to have changed, but all in all Florence is the city where my heart beats the loudest. And where not only did I find my home, but also my love. And for that I am forever grateful.
Share your comments for this blog post on the Living in Florence's Facebook page. Grazie!