TUSCANY II

TUSCANY II 

OCTOBER 6, 2021

Let me tell you about the Medieval Tower we stayed in for two nights in Radda. We were told it would be a tower but it was actually the very end of a stretch of tall stone homes (4 or 5 stories each ) on the narrow streets of a walled medieval town, Radda-in-Chianti. The first flight of stairs led to a living room and kitchen, second flight led to a bedroom and sitting room, and the top floor had been renovated into a master bedroom with a terrace looking out over the town and the Tuscan hills. Each floor had large airy windows on 3 sides, opening up over the streets where shop vendors and offices opened mid-morning. The views were stunning, the townspeople were friendly and the streets were quiet and peaceful at night. And we were not even 25 meters from the church bell tower, and could watch it from the terrace. It became another couple of days measured by rich, resounding music. Radda even had a kind of change-ringing melody that was played in the evening.  

Our days were spent hiking in vineyards and olive groves, wandering other medieval villages and of course, visiting ancient churches full of treasured artwork and fascinating architecture. We were able to get reservations at a couple of really remarkable ristorantes with traditional Tuscan fare; such a delight to the tastebuds. It's interesting that the finest country kitchens are quite inexpensive by American standards. There have been a number of meals that either Tim or I have mentioned "Babette's Feast." 

We've had the sense that we are being treated to the finest foods, the rarest wines (table wines!), and the most kind and helpful service in unique and beautiful settings. We are repeatedly stunned by the sheer grace of it all. It's our prayer that each of the loved ones in our lives might experience this, as well!

We'll update about our current adventures in Florence next...

Pax Christi!