Began day 5 with a morning — yes, morning–wine tasting and cellar tour of the Cantina Winery owned and operated entirely by women. They make Brunello wines — considered among the most prestigious of Italy.

Julia our guide at the wine cellar

One of the women working at the winery– the harvest had begun in full force!

In the vineyard…

Went on to Montalcino — a wonderful hill town that was the final bastion of the Republic of Siena.

The long trudge…

Beautiful Montalcino…

Couldn’t help myself– swinging in the medieval city of Montalcino…

From Montalcino we went on to the 9th century abbey Sant’Antimo, said to have been established by Charlemagne.

The abbey…What a remarkable and spiritual place…

At the end of the day Keith and I toured the   Palace (in Pienza) of Cardinal Rodrigo Borgia who became Pope Alexander VI.  The real story there is that we almost got locked in for the night- tried to exit but the big gate was locked! Keith said  that is something he did not want to do in a Borgia palace! Finally rescued by the staff! 😀😀

This next photo is from a day or two ago- this is the villa that was Russel Crow’s home in the ” Gladiator” movie – was supposed to be Spain but was actually filmed in Tuscany!

Day 6…

Trip to the “dying city” of Civita di Bagnoregio which is eroding away. Great walk across the bridge to reach the beautiful medieval city! Then on to Orvieto…

Civita

Fascinating Etruscan caves in Orvieto

The magnificent cathedral in Orvieto

A wonderful ending to the day was a great dinner at an Osteria in Pienza- local specialties and wine chosen by the owner, Luciano…

Luciano and the almond snake cake!

Ciao! Off to dinner!