Barbara's retirement year: Bergamo and environs

After a fantastic sleep at high altitude , top of the tower, it was great to look down on the world below from my room.

Throughout the old town with its narrow cobbled streets there are wonderful shops in very old buildings. This snack bar was amazing. Believe it or not, I have not been in it. Don't think I would trust myself!

I photograpged this restaurant last night but did not see this great picture.

After once again being stupid enough to slip on the cobbles and land on my knees, I struggled a bit with stairs but made it to the Orto botanico. I am so pleased I did as it was fabulous. We were there alone and so had all the time in the world to stop and stare. The early morning rain looked gorgeous on the grasses there.

Then, luckily for us, we found ourselves above the fog which was cloaking the town in ghostly shrouds. What breathtaking scenery!

As we were close to the funicular to San Vigilio, we took advantage of the better visibility. The little funicular was really cute.

We had wonderful views over the surrounding hills and pretty colourful houses

And on the other side, views of Bergamo Alta and Bassa. Bergamo Alta looks fabulous on the top of the hill - sadly the light was not great, but actually we were lucky, because just before we left the fog returned

I thought these toadstools looked like pretty little girls ( one- legged!) in frilly dresses and with little sunhats 🙂

Scary statues close to the Piazza Vecchia.

Because I was hobbling a bit and also because it was recommended highly, I visited the Museum of the Venetian Age. It was a wonderful interactive museum showing many aspects of how people used to live at the time of the 'most serene republic of Venice'. It took ages to read everything in Italian, but the very pleasant, young, good - looking guide, who adored the South Island of NZ and of course The All Blacks, was always ready to assist me😌

I had a brilliant time there.

Then on to the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiors - very ornate -

And the Duomo which was still very impressive but much less ornate.

Tea drinking in the Piazza Vecchia was fun. Lots of interestimg people to watch and a very unusual cup - don't think my Mum would have approved!

As I write this I am sitting in the bar which has this poster! I will try not to look like the dog when I keave! Very good Chardonnay from the region. I can't cope with the over 60 stairs to the room twice this evening - my excuse for being here and not in my room!