Today the guys and gals went their own ways; the guys toured historic churches and sites, and the gals toured the shopping district.

The gals weren’t all about buying things, rather their guide took them to stores that started out as small clothing and accessory businesses, and grew into market giants like Gucci. Of course they did find a few things to purchase.

The guys went to three of the main church’s in Florence: The Church of the Holy Trinity, Santa Maria Novella, and Saint Mary of the Carmel.

Our very knowledgeable guide provided historical perspectives on each site, and went into great detail describing the stories behind, and meanings of, the artwork on the walls of the side chapels, and many other areas of each church.

The guys also managed to stop in a coin store and purchase a few treasurers.

The rest of the afternoon was spent on self-led walking tours of the city. It seems that every time we turned a corner there was something new and interesting.

Our evening meal was at L’Osteria Di Giovanni, a short fifteen minute walk from the hotel.

Tomorrow it’s off to Rome.

Buona Notte!