This past saturday I went on one of the trips our program provides. We spent the day at Orveito, which is small town about half way between Florence and Rome, (google orvieto for panoramic views). Orvieto is an exceptionally unique town. It sits on top of flat mesa of volcanic rock. Its been populated since the time of the Etruscans. Short history lesson: the etruscans were the people who thought they were cool and ruled northern italy and the romans until the romans decided to kick the crap out of everyone. In fact the etruscans were the Roman's first test in art of arse kicking (the romans were really good at that, ask your great great times 8 grandfather). We started the day at the ancient fortress of Orvieto which provided fantastic views of the surrounding area (once again, google it). We then went in the Pope's well, yes inside the well. Since orvieto was the summer home/ favorite hide and go seek spot of many popes one got smart and decided to siege proof Orvieto (he played for keeps in H&GS). This well was 60 meters wide and 50 meters deep, which converts to "flipping huge" in terms of feet (check the bottom of page to see another picture of the well) Two stair cases, one up, one down. Provided some cool pictures. We then took a tour of the underground city. This was extremely interesting. There was remains of everything, from a olive oil factory to giant rooms used to house pigeons. Which was and still is a common food in Orvieto. Upon learning this I decided it was time to man up, give it a go.... so i had pasta for lunch
I could go on and on about this town. One of the most unique places I have visited. If i had time, I would go back. I put up multiple pictures because this town was worth showing you everything I can.
Sunday I went to Siena...a related post will follow. Brace yourselves for blog photo history
Rill Rill -Sleigh Bells
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uLRnmQ-4Yp0
The best is yet to come - XV (really starting to love this guys stuff)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R7qL9AG7-MQ
That place looks pretty sweet. I think you should have tried the pigeon, if the locals are eating it and they are still alive then it wont kill you. Pretty sweet well also, although it would be more of a pond and less of a well if it is really 60 meters wide.
ReplyDeleteAwesome Photos, Max. I too thought you should have tried the pigeon. But then you might have "choked and died". I loved the food pictures. Thank you. I bet you have to pinch yourself some times about where you are and the places that you are seeing. Quite the experience.
ReplyDeleteIm with you max if the Italians came to the US and saw the pigeons we had they would not eat it either.
ReplyDelete