Pisa – Cathedral Museum


Behind the Cathedral and the Tower is the Cathedral Museum, containing may works of art which at one time were in and around the Cathedral and other buildings in the Field of Miracles.  Over time these works were moved inside for safety or preservation.  There are a wide variety of pieces housed here despite the…

Pisa – Sinopie Museum


Across the square from the Camposanto is the Sinopie Museum.  This museum houses the full-scale sketches that were used to create the frescoes inside the Camposanto.  Although it probably receives even fewer visitors than the Camposanto, the museum is certainly a valuable part of your trip to Pisa. Perhaps the idea of looking at someone’s…

Pisa – Camposanto


Believe it or not, there is more to see in Pisa’s cathedral square than just the famous tower.  My personal favorite is the Camposanto (“holy ground”) – a large Gothic cloister burial ground constructed in 1279 around soil brought back from Golgotha, the site of Jesus’ crucifixion.  The outer walls of the Camposanto are fairly…

The Houses of Pompeii


In the ruins of Pompeii there are a range of structures from the small dwellings of its poorer residents to the massive houses of the wealthy.  Amazingly the detailed decorations of the houses – fine mosaic flooring and fresco interior walls – remained intact after the eruption.  These few photos don’t really do justice to…

The Vatican Museums


The Vatican’s art collection vast, to put it mildly, and definitely something not to be missed even if you don’t have time to soak in every piece.  From sculptures to paintings…from unknown artists to masters such as da Vanci, Raphael, and Titian…it’s a feast for the eyes and a bit overwhelming at first.  The big…

Walking Around Rome


Whenever possible we like to walk around a bit the first evening after arriving in our destination.  It helps to get some exercise before bedtime and adjust to the jet lag.  Besides, evening is an interesting time of day to observe the local happenings – people are getting off work, going out to eat, doing…