Fattoria

We passed this newly built fattoria with guest rooms during a walk in the Tuscan countryside near Monteriggioni.

The Guardian

An Egyptian sphinx sits atop a wall in the peristyle leading to Diocletian's Palace in Split, Croatia. Built for the Roman Emperior Diocletian, the palace dates to 305 AD. Originally there were 16 such sphinxes.

Tuscan Afternoon

A stroll through the walled town of Monteriggioni leads down quiet streets and alleys such as this.

Pizza on the Piazza del Campo

I had lunch at this pizzeria while in Siena, Italy. It's located at the edge of the scallop shaped Piazza del Campo, where the famous Palio takes place. The yellow flag bears a double headed eagle and represents the contrade del aquila, or district of the eagle. There are 17 contrade, and they date back to the middle ages.

Container Garden

I photographed this typical Tuscan container garden in Monteriggioni, while briefly visiting the walled medieval town with its population of several thousand.

Tuscan Doorway

This old door is brightened by the addition of flower pots. Texture by Shadowhouse Creations.

Eternal Rome

Ruins of a Roman temple framed by trees on the Palatine Hill above the Forum.