We were woken this morning by more earth tremors, the second time in less than a week, first in Rome and now Siena.  In contrast, despite the number of times we have been to New Zealand (the so-called Shaky Isles) we have never experienced even a slight hiccup there.

We decided this morning to go to the Museo Civico, and then to take the advice of the author of our Lonely Planet guide, and to just wander wherever our feet take us.

The Museo Civico is housed in the Palazzo Publico (town hall) at the base of the Piazza del Campo.  It was built in stages commencing in 1297, and added to during ensuing centuries by various people.  The walls and ceilings of all the rooms have richly painted and gilded frescoes by artists of the Sienese school.  All that glitters on the ceilings really is gold.  There are lots of religious and military murals, including a beautiful little chapel with a gorgeous wrought iron gate.  Lots of silverware and religious artifacts from past centuries is on display in glass cabinets, and the woodwork in the Council Chambers is astonishing, especially the inlaid woodwork and turned wooden chairs in the main audience chamber.  Vic, you would have been most impressed!

On our way out we chanced across an exhibition of photographs.  There must have been over 100 photos, attributed to different photographers from around the world, noting the camera used, and other technical data which I didn’t understand also listed.  There was even a photograph by a Latvian photographer, even though he had a very Russian name.  Sadly no Australians were represented. An interesting hour well spent.

We then had lunch, a pizza slice with mozzarella and tomato – yum, after which we roamed around aimlessly, taking photographs as we went.  There are a lot of hidden gems in the back streets, away from the madding crowds.  Then back to our hotel to rest and recuperate in time for another foray to find a restaurant for dinner (getting sick of eating out).

Real men in Siena ride motorcycles, only girls, with high heels and tight short skirts ride motor scooters.

The locals dress very smartly, both men and women. It’s important not to be seen without being correctly attired, hair done, makeup and red lippy in place (If you’re a female, ha ha).  Oh, and don’t forget the perfume or aftershave and the dog on it’s posh retractable lead.

Scarves, and puffer jackets in shiny fabrics abound; the locals think that the next ice age has arrived and they’re freezing.  Meanwhile the Yeates think that it’s lovely and warm, 25 degrees and wonderfully sunny, and are walking around wearing T shirts.  The central heating is on in the hotel, so we have our window wide open trying to get some cool air into the room.

It’s Sunday, and there is a very disappointing lack of church bells.  We thought that we’d be well entertained, but sadly not.

We’re looking forward to “flat” Florence and Lucca after hilly Siena, Rome and Naples.  Venice has lots of bridges to scale, but that’s a week away yet.

Daylight saving ended in Italy this morning, and we’ve wound our clocks back an hour.

And lastly, but most importantly, I love my “new” eyes.  I can see all the wonderful details I’ve been missing out on for so long.  So very pleased I’ve had the cataracts done. Worth every cent.

Ciao.  Ilze