Kaisa Paldan Dr. Razi CIS1020 Summer I 2011

Venice is a car-free city made up of islands connected by waterways and bridges.

Venice’s unique structure makes it a city of beauty and travel is most often by boat. Sites to see in Venice: St. Mark’s Square- the main square in the heart of the city. St. Mark’s Basilica- located directly off of the square, this cathedral is home to the bones of many Saint’s. Rialto Bridge- a beautifully designed bridge that spans across the Grand Canal.

Cinque Terre is made up of five villages and is great for hiking, swimming and relaxation.

The Cinque Terre’s peaceful setting is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the picturesque scenery. The five villages that make up the Cinque Terre are: Riomaggiore- a neighborhood town with many hiking trails and beach access. Manarola- a peaceful town known for its pleasant walking routes and underground tunnels. Corniglia- a quiet town and the only town not located directly on the water, but is most famous for its wine. Vernazza- a harbor town and known as the “Jewel of Cinque Terre.” Monterosso al Mare- is the only town built on flat land and is known for its lively late-night activities.

Florence is the birthplace of the Renaissance style and home to great art, fashion and food.

Florence is known as the origin of the Renaissance movement making it home to great architecture and art masterpieces. The most notable sites to see in Florence are: Accademia- houses two of Michelangelo’s most famous works of art. Uffizi Gallery- holds the greatest collection of Italian paintings. Galileo Science Museum- displays scientific gadgets from history and Galileo’s fingers. Duomo- a Gothic cathedral that contains the first Renaissance dome.

Rome is the city in which civilization began. Some of the world’s oldest architecture lies in this city.

Rome is home to some of the oldest architecture in the world. There are many famous sites that one must see when in Rome: Trevi Fountain- a Baroque masterpiece in which tourists can throw their coins to wish for a return trip to Rome. The Vatican- home to the Pope, head of the world-wide Catholic religion. The Colosseum- a large stadium that represents the “golden” years of Roman history. Pantheon- known as “the Heart of Rome” and represents well-preserved architecture from the Renaissance. The Spanish Steps- the iconic, curving staircase located between two beautiful Baroque church towers.

Venezia Cinque Terre Firenze Roma Steves, R. (2011). Italy. Berkeley, CA: Avalon Travel.