Bologna, June 2007

In June 2007 we took a three-week land trip through Italy. Italy is a wonderful vacation destination, one we always enjoy. No matter how often we visit this enchanting county, it’s never enough. We just drink in everything it has to offer then thirst for more.

I was just looking through my photos from that trip and decided to share some of my better ones with you. These are just snapshots, taken with a little point and shoot camera as we strolled through the city. I will identify the subject matter when possible. With the lapse of more than 12 years my recall of events and places is limited. But the photos are timeless. I hope you enjoy this little bit of reminiscing.

We will start with a visit to Bologna. The weather was sunny and warm. The city is extremely walkable. As I look at my pictures I realize that my camera and my efforts are not up to my current equipment and technique, nor is my coverage as comprehensive as I now try to accomplish. Nonetheless, the photos provide a glimpse of this interesting and lively city.

Here is a photo of one of Bologna’s major tourist attractions, Torri degli Asinelli e Garisenda, the Two Leaning Towers of Bologna.

They were built in 1109 to demonstrate the wealth and power of Bologna’s leading citizens. If you have the stamina you can walk the 498 steps to the top of Asinelli.

Lets mix in a door knocker that I liked then and still do.

The Fontana di Nettuno, Neptune Fountain, dates back to 1566 and stands in the Piazza Nettuno, next to Piazza Maggiore.

Street scenes and view of a garden.

A reflection on one of the Two Towers.

The streets are populated with porticos that protect you from the sun and rain and what nature has to offer.

An interesting door!

A photo of Piazza Dei Martiri.

Crest over a door.

The Basilica of San Domenico houses, in this crypt, the remains of Saint Dominic.

Amazing fresco, Saint Dominc in Glory, was painted by Guido Reni between 1613 and 1615.

Here is a shot outside the Basilica of St. Dominic.

The Basilica of San Petronio is dedicated to the 5th century Bishop of the city and ranks among the greatest of Italy’s brick-built medieval buildings. It was only half finished on the outside and is located in Piazza Maggiori. Don’t let the facade fool you, the inside is well worth a visit. Here are a selection of photos, starting from the outside.

And now, just some miscellaneous photos of things I liked and continue to enjoy.

Last, but certainly not least, is the view from our room followed by me next to our rental car outside of the hotel. I was even lucky enough to get a parking ticket for overnight parking. Hotel staff said “not to worry, no one gets ticketed.” I paid it from home many months later.