DAY 3

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Today we met our bus driver, Sergio, and headed to Ravenna with the final destination being the Villa Pambufetti in Montefalco. Our bus was so spacious that most people could have a window seat, which is another perk of a Rick Steves tour.

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Ravenna is known for its mosaics and ancient churches. We visited a  mausoleum built for Galia Placidia, a Roman empress, but she was never interred there. Check out the photo at the top of the page to see the intricate mosaics. We then entered the Basilica of San Vitale that had even more amazing mosaics. The artwork tells a story as you circle around the basilica interior.

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Time to wander on our own so we found the Church of San Apollinare, a 6th century building where the first bishop of Ravenna is buried. We then answered the call of gelato. I had mango and oreo, so good. Sorry, Sue, I forgot your flavor ;)

 

Our home for the​ next two nights was

a peaceful villa where we were the only 

guests. The evening ended with an aperitif and a short walk to the town of Montefalco for dinner.

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DAY 4

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After a fabulous, homemade breakfast we were on our way to Assisi. We toured the basilica dedicated to St Francis who gave up his wealth to promote peace. We also walked through the church of St Clare. Clare was a woman who dedicated herself to following the teachings of St. Francis. It was pizza for lunch (the tomato sauce in Italy has been so yummy) and then back to the villa. Many of us rested a bit by the pool before going to watch two dogs truffle hunt at a local country estate. A delicious meal with truffles was then had while we watched the sun set over the Trevi countryside. (See photo at bottom of page)

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