Lucca and Pisa - 21st March

We got up early this morning to make a good start, which was pretty much a first for us. The vineyard on which were are staying is hard to leave, especially in the sunshine. Sadly, yesterday's eclipse was a bit of a non-event this far south (Reuben was upset that we hadn't told him it was happening, despite the fact we sat him in front of a BBC TV channel which broadcast it live - there really wasn't a discernable darkening of the skies here!).
So, today, we headed north to Lucca to explore this city within high walls. There is indeed a tall tower with what looks like a small orchard growing out out of the top of it. The narrow winding streets are a delight, and we had our first Italian pizza from an authentic pizzeria (served, no less, by a Natalie Portman look-alike).
Lucca seems to shut down on a Saturday afternoon, and the streets are left to be cleaned and swept as though after a particularly rowdy party. But we had other plans.
Driving south for half an hour we arrived at Pisa, parking not two minutes from the famous, if worryingly constructed, tower. It is certainly spectacular. Couldn't help thinking that the builders of the splendid neighbouring cathedral must feel (in their demise) a tad frustrated that their marvelous construction gets a little sidelined by a wonky tower in its grounds!
The two hour drive back to the apartment over Tuscan backlanes was worth it - quite stunning!
Tomorrow.......Florence!
N.B.

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