Lucca

Lucca is NW of Florence and E of Pisa. It is one of the few medieval towns that still has its ramparts (walls) intact. They have kept Lucca contained and now, car-free. It is amazingly walkable and lots to interest anyone. You can walk around the entire town on the ramparts as they are now a green belt.

The best part is that I was there from around 4 to 7ish and it was hopping! Parents and kids, singles, teens, 20-30 somethings, tourists, of course, but it was so alive. This is something that you just do not get in the US. It's real people living, working and shopping and walking and bicycling in a small town. Lots of huggy/2-cheek kissies!

There is a huge procession going on tonight for Holy Cross (which is actually tomorrow) but I couldn't stay because I've been up for 48 hours, I don't wanna drive in ITALY in the dark! and and...there's another reason. Anyway, picture it. Religious procession, candles, yadayada.