Day 2, 6/9/22, part 2

Like the morning's visit to the Accademia, it was essential to get reservations for Brunelleschi's Dome. Mike handled both of these.

Brunelleschi's Dome is an architectural wonder, although I have only the most vague idea of what makes it the work of a genius. I just know that is is tall, and getting to the top is just short of 400 steps.

We again hired a tour guide, Mario, and Simone, our morning guide, was a tough act to follow. Mario was pleasant and informative, but much less dynamic. Here is is at the first landing.

Here's Mike and Walter on the climb. 

The staircase up the tower was encased, not good if you are claustrophobic, and there were little window looking out of the exterior wall.

The first time we emerged into the dome, we could see the frescos on the ceiling. There is no photograph that can capture what we were seeing in person.

Here's the view from top. Not good if you are acrophobic.

I spared you the view of the railing and drop-off.

And, as always, you don't really get a sense from a picture of what you can see in person.