Ciao! It's already been 1 week since arriving in Viterbo! It's a smaller town of 60,000. A large portion of Viterbo is surrounded by 11th-13th century medieval walls. The streets are cobblestone and are lined with shops and cafes. There is so much history here that I haven't been able take it all in yet. Viterbo is called "City of the Popes" because popes came here to relax and enjoy the many hot springs near by. The pope between 1257 and 1281 actually lived here when it wasn't safe for him in Rome.
Entering the walls through portas (doors) seems to take me back in time. Life is slower here. Everything closes from about 1-4pm everyday for pausa pranzo (lunch break). People are rarely seen after 8pm except for the few nights a "night life" exists. There are many piazzas that each have a bell tower, church and fountain. Each are unique. There is a medieval part of town that I haven’t explored yet, but hope to do so soon!
The people are real friendly...except when driving. I've gone to an open air fruit and veggie market a few times already and will probably make that a habit. The first time I went I had picked out three apples and gave it to the man to weigh. He only put two on the scale and gave me a free one. Stefano, the program director here, said if we go to a stand or even into one of the cafes a few times they will remember us and what we like.
Buona sera!
Entering the walls through portas (doors) seems to take me back in time. Life is slower here. Everything closes from about 1-4pm everyday for pausa pranzo (lunch break). People are rarely seen after 8pm except for the few nights a "night life" exists. There are many piazzas that each have a bell tower, church and fountain. Each are unique. There is a medieval part of town that I haven’t explored yet, but hope to do so soon!
The people are real friendly...except when driving. I've gone to an open air fruit and veggie market a few times already and will probably make that a habit. The first time I went I had picked out three apples and gave it to the man to weigh. He only put two on the scale and gave me a free one. Stefano, the program director here, said if we go to a stand or even into one of the cafes a few times they will remember us and what we like.
Buona sera!
3 comments:
Julie,
I am glad you are having a good time. I appreciate you taking the time to share your adventure with us.
Take care,
Mark Stadtlander
Hey Julie! I'm so glad you're having a great time. I'm also really glad for your blog and pics...I'm living vicariously through you. So keep enjoying the gelato (I miss that stuff...it's just not the same in Italian restaurants here) and the scenery. I'm completely jealous!
Hey Julie - glad to hear you're doing well and having fun. Keep us updated as often as you can. Take care.
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