Villa Gamberaia, Florence, Tuscany

Nothing can prepare you for the breathtaking magnificence of the scene.
You have climbed the hill to Settignano, continued upwards to the Villa Gamberaia,

walked down the drive and arrived at the terrace.

To the right is a stunning view over the valley of the Arno,

containing the jewel that is Florence,

the dome of the Duomo, unmistakable.

Brunelleschi's famed architecture forever a symbol of the city.

The historic city is perfectly framed by a stone pine and a low wall interspersed

with sculptures of urns and dogs, forever on watch.

The design of house and garden in this hilltop setting

is a sublime meeting of art, architecture and nature.

One feels truly awed at the wonders and perfection before you.

All images

Hipstamatic, Jane Lens, Kodot XGrizzled Film

Tuscan Peace

Le Celle Hermitage, Cortona, Tuscany

Place of serenity

A restoration of the mind

Surrounded by natural beauty.

Hipstamatic, Jane Lens, Kodot XGrizzled Film

Tuscan Sunlight

A certain shaft of light

Falls across this venerable wooden door

Affixed with a simple cross

In a Tuscan hillside monastery.

Hipstamatic, John S Lens, W40 Film

Sunlight and shadow

Light and shade

Patterns on a crumbling wall.

Hipstamatic, John S Lens, W40 Film

Tuscany, Bramasole

Bramasole, near Cortona, Tuscany

Home of author Frances Mayes

Under the Tuscan Sun

An inspiration to all who love Italy.

Hipstamatic, John S Lens, Blanko Freedom 13 Film

A shaft of warm September sunlight

Falls across

The shrine beneath the house.

Hipstamatic, John S Lens, Big Up Film.