Saturday, September 29, 2012
Leaning Tower of Pizza? (Pisa trip)
So of course one of the iconic landmarks of Italy is the leaning tower of Pisa. And of course that became a main priority of mine to visit. So one Saturday a few friends and I took the train from Florence to Pisa (using the train it is roughly 14 euro roundtrip). When you arrive in Pisa you pretty quickly realize the reason you never hear anything else about Pisa. It is because other than the Cathedral and the tower that is freestanding from it... there is nothing else to see. The city itself is rather boring and uneventful. So for those who plan to travel to Italy know that if you are staying in a nearby city such as Florence, you really only need 4 hours max for travel, site-seeing, and returning.
The tower itself is remarkable, as well as the cathedral that it is meant to accompany. The dramatic lean of the bottom of the tower gives you the constant feeling that it is going to tip over at any moment. However, the top of the tower is completely straight. It is so perplexing to see. And upon examination of the Cathedral I also saw major flaws in its architecture as well. When looking you can see that the different levels of windows aren't symmetrical, the bottom level slopes up so the second row slopes down in order to allow for the third row to be entirely level. I couldn't help but laugh at the horrible worksmanship of the architect who made both. I also couldn't help being entirely curious why the tower was leaning. Upon research I realized it was because the original architect who was building the tower did not check the foundation and realize that some of the soil was unfit for supporting such a large monument. So when it began to slope work was halted on the tower. During that time a war broke out also halting progress. During this time the soil was able to settle and support the monument. So instead of scrapping the entire project they continued to build on it. How odd. When you know the tower is guaranteed to slope why would you just continue on knowing it would continue to lean? I think this unique mentality is so funny as well as so interesting. Was this then meant to become art? Was it the purpose of the tower to bring more people to Pisa? I guess we'll never really know.
My favorite part is I was finally able to accomplish a project of mine... to get a photograph dancing with major international monuments. I am hoping to continue this project as I travel through Europe. So stay tuned for additional photos :)
The tower itself is remarkable, as well as the cathedral that it is meant to accompany. The dramatic lean of the bottom of the tower gives you the constant feeling that it is going to tip over at any moment. However, the top of the tower is completely straight. It is so perplexing to see. And upon examination of the Cathedral I also saw major flaws in its architecture as well. When looking you can see that the different levels of windows aren't symmetrical, the bottom level slopes up so the second row slopes down in order to allow for the third row to be entirely level. I couldn't help but laugh at the horrible worksmanship of the architect who made both. I also couldn't help being entirely curious why the tower was leaning. Upon research I realized it was because the original architect who was building the tower did not check the foundation and realize that some of the soil was unfit for supporting such a large monument. So when it began to slope work was halted on the tower. During that time a war broke out also halting progress. During this time the soil was able to settle and support the monument. So instead of scrapping the entire project they continued to build on it. How odd. When you know the tower is guaranteed to slope why would you just continue on knowing it would continue to lean? I think this unique mentality is so funny as well as so interesting. Was this then meant to become art? Was it the purpose of the tower to bring more people to Pisa? I guess we'll never really know.
My favorite part is I was finally able to accomplish a project of mine... to get a photograph dancing with major international monuments. I am hoping to continue this project as I travel through Europe. So stay tuned for additional photos :)
Sporting Events In Italia
As an american there is no shortage of sports to watch. Basketball, Baseball, Football and Hockey being the favored, but also wrestling, boxing, and soccer have no shortage of viewers. It is a favorite american pastime. However, what I have experienced in just 2 soccer matches here in Florence is unlike any experience i've ever had when going to a sporting event at home.
Everyone knows the importance of the crowds to get riled up and excited at a game. However I feel so often that when I am watching many sporting events there are those who are actively involved and others who get involved when it is necessary. Typically this happens when it is your team and they are down at the end such as in the 4th quarter of a basketball game. Then all of a sudden is when you see the active support of the crowds to cheer their team on. As a dance performer, I understand how important it is for audience involvement. It is like completing a dance with no cheering. It makes you feel uncertain, disappointed, unmotivated and overall takes from your desire to do your best. It is upsetting to me when people go to sporting events and spend the whole time just sitting there. Then all of a sudden when their team is down they then become die-hard fans. Where were you when the energy was high? When your team was on a good run? Why not support them when they are up rather than condemn them when they are down? These are questions that have constantly perplexed me as a viewer when I have gone to a lot of games.
And I feel like I understand why this happens. There is such a wide variety of sports at our disposal that we often forget our responsibility as fans. Yes they are there for our entertainment, but the players are also there because they love the game. It is their passion. And as fans we have a responsibility to nurture that passion. Why wouldn't we? I know it seems silly to put this much insight into one person having that great of an impact on a sporting event but I really believe it is true. Because if each individual person puts in that much effort to simply cheer their team on, wouldn't we be an unstoppable force of support? As an athlete I would love to feel that energy and feed off it while i'm playing. Knowing that that many people believe in my talent and ability.
That is exactly what an Italian soccer game is like. It was breathtaking and inspiring. There was not one single person in that stadium that did not scream, yell, chant, clap, jump up and down. It was a united front against Fiorentina's opponents. That energy was infectious and even as an outsider I couldn't help but feel entirely swept up into the moment. And I know others felt the same. The more remarkable thing is that it continued the entire game. There was never a lull. Throughout the entire game there was excitement and drive to show support and pride in Fiorentina's team. When there were bad calls the entire stadium erupted. When they made a goal (twice in the first match) It felt like an earthquake throughout the stadium. I saw complete strangers grabbing each other to hug, picking people up and throwing them around. And all I could think during all of this is why do we not have the same reaction back in the US?
I'm not in anyway saying that everyone is like this in the US at games. So uninvolved. On the contrary I know so many people who have the most passionate views. They are some of my favorite people to be around when i'm watching sports whether it is actually going to the game or if it is going to a bar to enjoy it. And that is exactly why I like being around them. It is their energy. Their complete love for the game. Their appreciate of the artist... the athlete that has worked their entire life to become a professional basketball player or hockey, etc. This energy is infectious and it makes it impossible to enjoy a sporting event without them around. I truly can't wait to go to more sporting events here. I'm addicted to the love and pride they feel for their athletes.
Everyone knows the importance of the crowds to get riled up and excited at a game. However I feel so often that when I am watching many sporting events there are those who are actively involved and others who get involved when it is necessary. Typically this happens when it is your team and they are down at the end such as in the 4th quarter of a basketball game. Then all of a sudden is when you see the active support of the crowds to cheer their team on. As a dance performer, I understand how important it is for audience involvement. It is like completing a dance with no cheering. It makes you feel uncertain, disappointed, unmotivated and overall takes from your desire to do your best. It is upsetting to me when people go to sporting events and spend the whole time just sitting there. Then all of a sudden when their team is down they then become die-hard fans. Where were you when the energy was high? When your team was on a good run? Why not support them when they are up rather than condemn them when they are down? These are questions that have constantly perplexed me as a viewer when I have gone to a lot of games.
And I feel like I understand why this happens. There is such a wide variety of sports at our disposal that we often forget our responsibility as fans. Yes they are there for our entertainment, but the players are also there because they love the game. It is their passion. And as fans we have a responsibility to nurture that passion. Why wouldn't we? I know it seems silly to put this much insight into one person having that great of an impact on a sporting event but I really believe it is true. Because if each individual person puts in that much effort to simply cheer their team on, wouldn't we be an unstoppable force of support? As an athlete I would love to feel that energy and feed off it while i'm playing. Knowing that that many people believe in my talent and ability.
That is exactly what an Italian soccer game is like. It was breathtaking and inspiring. There was not one single person in that stadium that did not scream, yell, chant, clap, jump up and down. It was a united front against Fiorentina's opponents. That energy was infectious and even as an outsider I couldn't help but feel entirely swept up into the moment. And I know others felt the same. The more remarkable thing is that it continued the entire game. There was never a lull. Throughout the entire game there was excitement and drive to show support and pride in Fiorentina's team. When there were bad calls the entire stadium erupted. When they made a goal (twice in the first match) It felt like an earthquake throughout the stadium. I saw complete strangers grabbing each other to hug, picking people up and throwing them around. And all I could think during all of this is why do we not have the same reaction back in the US?
I'm not in anyway saying that everyone is like this in the US at games. So uninvolved. On the contrary I know so many people who have the most passionate views. They are some of my favorite people to be around when i'm watching sports whether it is actually going to the game or if it is going to a bar to enjoy it. And that is exactly why I like being around them. It is their energy. Their complete love for the game. Their appreciate of the artist... the athlete that has worked their entire life to become a professional basketball player or hockey, etc. This energy is infectious and it makes it impossible to enjoy a sporting event without them around. I truly can't wait to go to more sporting events here. I'm addicted to the love and pride they feel for their athletes.
Friday, September 28, 2012
Falling in love with Cinque Terre
While my study abroad has truly just begun there is no way I can explain how much i loved visiting the small towns of Cinque Terre. The first weekend I came to Italy a group of students from my program and I spent Sunday hiking through each of the small towns: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare. Each city is built into the rocks and its structure simulates the structure of the hills and cliffs it sits on. In this way it actually reminds me a great deal of how I invision Santorini to look. Yet the colors and architecture is classic italian.
So the reason I absolutely fell in love with the 5 lands of the Italian riviera is the simplicity of each of the cities. I love how they seem to pop out from the cliffs and yet are hidden at the same time. The actual surroundings are peaceful and combined with the beautiful weather made it a place of pure tranquility. It is the exact opposite of the busy streets of central Florence. The beaches held captivating and picturesque views that you can only imagine must be photoshopped for a brochure to sell to tourists. But that is exactly how beautiful and perfect it is. And the ocean itself is simply amazing. I was finally able to attain a life goal of stepping into another ocean other than the Pacific that day. The Mediterranean Sea is warm and extremely blue due to its lack of major pollution. However, it is also about 5 times saltier than the Pacific. So while it was exciting because it makes you extremely buoyant it also tastes extremely awful and stings your eyes. So I am officially warned for future visits.
The hike itself between the cities was beautiful and also extremely challenging. The first walk from Riomaggiore to Manarola takes you through Via Dell'Amore "Lovers Walk" and is definitely one of the most romantic walks i've ever taken. The views are spectacular, the air is refreshing, and each person leaves their mark along the walls of the passage ways, including myself. Then as a very special token many people leave locks along gates to seal their love forever. I of course wasn't there with someone I loved but the symbolism was so beautiful to see. The challenging part of the hiking came from hiking from Corniglia to Vernazza. The hike takes approximately an hour and a half and is full of very steep climbs on rough cobblestone as well as loose dirt. And since it was a very warm and sunny day thirst becomes a very big issue. It is amazing and I definitely advocate challenging yourself and taking this hike but next time I might relax and instead take the ferry or the train to the next town :).
I have to say that my favorite town was probably Corniglia. And i'm not sure why. It may be because that is the town I was able to explore for the longest time period. The cove to the beach involves hiking down and up again but is totally worth it. The food was fantastic including these delicious italian smoothies. And I saw the most adorable dogs that were just so relaxed and just enjoying the weather like everyone else. Monterosso al Mare was definitely where you find the most beach space however that is also why it is so crowded. While I was still able to set myself up with an area to lay out and enjoy some delicious gelato, I prefer the secludedness of Corniglia.
I absolutely fell in love with Cinque Terre that day. And can't wait to go visit again. So often when people are traveling they only focus on the major cities of a country. But Cinque Terre was such a unique experience and has so far been my favorite part of coming to Italy. It is these unique experiences that I was looking forward to the most <3
So the reason I absolutely fell in love with the 5 lands of the Italian riviera is the simplicity of each of the cities. I love how they seem to pop out from the cliffs and yet are hidden at the same time. The actual surroundings are peaceful and combined with the beautiful weather made it a place of pure tranquility. It is the exact opposite of the busy streets of central Florence. The beaches held captivating and picturesque views that you can only imagine must be photoshopped for a brochure to sell to tourists. But that is exactly how beautiful and perfect it is. And the ocean itself is simply amazing. I was finally able to attain a life goal of stepping into another ocean other than the Pacific that day. The Mediterranean Sea is warm and extremely blue due to its lack of major pollution. However, it is also about 5 times saltier than the Pacific. So while it was exciting because it makes you extremely buoyant it also tastes extremely awful and stings your eyes. So I am officially warned for future visits.
The hike itself between the cities was beautiful and also extremely challenging. The first walk from Riomaggiore to Manarola takes you through Via Dell'Amore "Lovers Walk" and is definitely one of the most romantic walks i've ever taken. The views are spectacular, the air is refreshing, and each person leaves their mark along the walls of the passage ways, including myself. Then as a very special token many people leave locks along gates to seal their love forever. I of course wasn't there with someone I loved but the symbolism was so beautiful to see. The challenging part of the hiking came from hiking from Corniglia to Vernazza. The hike takes approximately an hour and a half and is full of very steep climbs on rough cobblestone as well as loose dirt. And since it was a very warm and sunny day thirst becomes a very big issue. It is amazing and I definitely advocate challenging yourself and taking this hike but next time I might relax and instead take the ferry or the train to the next town :).
I have to say that my favorite town was probably Corniglia. And i'm not sure why. It may be because that is the town I was able to explore for the longest time period. The cove to the beach involves hiking down and up again but is totally worth it. The food was fantastic including these delicious italian smoothies. And I saw the most adorable dogs that were just so relaxed and just enjoying the weather like everyone else. Monterosso al Mare was definitely where you find the most beach space however that is also why it is so crowded. While I was still able to set myself up with an area to lay out and enjoy some delicious gelato, I prefer the secludedness of Corniglia.
I absolutely fell in love with Cinque Terre that day. And can't wait to go visit again. So often when people are traveling they only focus on the major cities of a country. But Cinque Terre was such a unique experience and has so far been my favorite part of coming to Italy. It is these unique experiences that I was looking forward to the most <3
Thursday, September 13, 2012
Food For Thought
So I guess every person who decides to study abroad has this moment but I finally reached mine: I live in Italy. It seems like such an easy concept yet it is somehow extremely difficult for your mind to comprehend. I have been here for a little over 2 weeks and yet somehow it feels like i've been walking these streets for so much longer (most likely because I am constantly getting lost, but that is the beauty of discovering a new city). Florence, thus far, is incredible. I could never possibly compare it to any other city. It has a beat of its own. Everyday I am walking through history and feel this rush and desire to know more. I feel like i've seen so much but really... i've barely scratched the surface.
To say I made the right decision to take this year of my life and move to another country would be an understatement of epic proportions. As I was doing a reflection of what I want from my year abroad I realized that what I want more than anything is infinite possibilities. I'm actually thrilled at the idea that anything could happen. I dream to feel like not only am I walking through history, i'm making it. I want so badly for my photos and writings to inspire others to take the leap of faith I did. Fall in love with Italia. I want to embrace this moment and never let it go.
To say I made the right decision to take this year of my life and move to another country would be an understatement of epic proportions. As I was doing a reflection of what I want from my year abroad I realized that what I want more than anything is infinite possibilities. I'm actually thrilled at the idea that anything could happen. I dream to feel like not only am I walking through history, i'm making it. I want so badly for my photos and writings to inspire others to take the leap of faith I did. Fall in love with Italia. I want to embrace this moment and never let it go.
Thursday, September 6, 2012
Class begins...as well as Italian life
So this past week was the beginning of classes. The campus is a small building but very beautiful and interesting in its design. There is a beautiful garden as well which is so nice to relax by during breaks.
Language courses have begun and for someone such as myself who has no experience with the language this week has been overwhelming. I am so anxious to be able to use it on a daily basis. Feel less like an outsider looking in. But it truly is challenging to learn to think Italian. I feel overloaded with information but I am determined to be able to pick it up. The best part is that while it is 5 days a week, its for 3 hours which leaves so much of the day to exploring, studying and becoming a part of the culture. I think it will only enhance the experience and speed up the learning process of language. At least I hope so :)
I'm most excited for the events coming up. This weekend is going to bring lots of interesting events. Including a lantern festival night, The opening of the Duomo, and a trip to Cinque Terre. Then next weekend includes a trip around Tuscany and the weekend after Radiohead concert! Currently a trip to Paris and/ or London is also being planned.
I am just so excited for everything coming up and so happy to be getting settled in here. Hopefully this will really feel like home one day.
We'll talk soon <3
Language courses have begun and for someone such as myself who has no experience with the language this week has been overwhelming. I am so anxious to be able to use it on a daily basis. Feel less like an outsider looking in. But it truly is challenging to learn to think Italian. I feel overloaded with information but I am determined to be able to pick it up. The best part is that while it is 5 days a week, its for 3 hours which leaves so much of the day to exploring, studying and becoming a part of the culture. I think it will only enhance the experience and speed up the learning process of language. At least I hope so :)
I'm most excited for the events coming up. This weekend is going to bring lots of interesting events. Including a lantern festival night, The opening of the Duomo, and a trip to Cinque Terre. Then next weekend includes a trip around Tuscany and the weekend after Radiohead concert! Currently a trip to Paris and/ or London is also being planned.
I am just so excited for everything coming up and so happy to be getting settled in here. Hopefully this will really feel like home one day.
We'll talk soon <3
Saturday, September 1, 2012
My very first apartment :)
Here are some photos from my very first Italian apartment! I wasn't able to get photos of the 3rd bedroom unfortunately. But there are 7 people... 4 girls, 3 boys... 3 bedrooms, one huge living room, 2 dining rooms and really adorable views. The neighborhood is simply amazing and right near the Piazza Della Signoria which is an incredible site. More pics to come!
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