Try as it may, the rain today did not dampen the spirits of the boys. High atop Giotto's Tower this afternoon, we see the boys enjoying the view of Firenze afforded those who make the 414 step climb.
Our drizzly Sunday began with a traditional mass at the Church of Ognissanti, on the banks of the Arno. Although all in Italian, the boys gained a greater appreciation for the universality of Catholicism. After mass, we examined frescos in the nave of Ognissanti by Ghirlandaio and Botticelli. A quick walk across town to Santa Maria Novella followed where the boys examined the façade, and interior pieces by Massaccio, Giotto, Ghirlandaio, the apprenticeship work of Michelangelo, and Brunelleschi.
Lunch at L’orenzaccio’s in the Piazza della Signoria was a blast. One of the waiters, impressed by the boys, decided to perform some “moves” and tell some quite interesting jokes and stories. It was on more than one occasion that the room erupted into raucous laughter. The rain may have been pouring outside, but inside it was all good cheer.
After lunch all 37 boys and many faculty climbed to the top of the Campanile. Video above. Dinner consisted of penne alla carrettiera first, tacchino alla vernaccia with zucchine trifolate for main, and a mouth-watering tiramisu for desert. Class and a humorous quiz on the day designed by JC followed, and then all went to bed with full stomachs, stimulated minds and happy hearts.
Buona notte.
Thank you, Dr. O'Halloran, for a fanstatic view into the study tour. All our boys are so blessed to be a part of Saint David's. Bridget Russo
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