Today six Tuscan travelers are pleased to report the discovery of — yet another — picturesquely ancient hill town. Monteriggioni (pronunciation unclear, however it is rumored that the “r” is silent) sits above vineyards (like they all do!) and is only a 16-minute drive from Lilliano. Deciding previously to nix their intended schedule of both Monteriggioni and Poggibonsi, the travelers enjoyed a laid-back and restful day.
“This is my favorite!” claimed one, preferring her anonymity. “Yes, they all have their charm. They all have walls, They are all quite ancient. However,” she continued, “this one has many large parking slots, no tour buses, and the TOILETTES ARE FREE.”
Tim and Anna Nanfito, pictured above, made another unique discovery — potable water pouring from a fountain named the “Peter and Paul Fountain”. “Peter has the key,” noted Anna, “and Paul has the tablet.”
Upon entering the city, all marveled at the peaceful, clean piazza with plenty (nay, even an overabundance of restaurants) and just enough shops to keep visitors intrigued. Dave Mealey, the group’s touring history teacher, entered a shop on the behest of his wife, Jane, only to discover an Etruscan coin for sale.
“Hey, ma’am,” he asked of the proprietress, “can you open the case so I can take a closer look at this coin?”
Happy to oblige, she allowed Dave to inspect the replica. “So, is this Etruscan?” he inquired. After a short conversation to verify the authenticity of said coinage, Dave agreed upon the purchase, and asked if he could use his credit card.
“My machine has been broken for two days,” answered the shopkeeper, “which is not surprising since I live in a medieval castle.”
Using money to buy money, Dave parted with 8 Euros and brought his Etruscan coin home to Lilliano. In the interest of truth in journalism, however, it shall be noted that upon further research, Dave discovered that his coin was …
NOT ETRUSCAN, but Sicilian.
“Missed it by that much,” said Dave.
Monteriggioni is known not only for its lack of ancient Tuscan money, but also for its place in classical literature. Dante, of “Divine Comedy” fame, compared Monteriggioni’s towers to a ring of giants standing guard around a deep, bottomless chasm. He writes that it “was turreted with giants, half their length,” whom another character threatened when “his muttering thunder roll[ed]. And indeed, another afternoon thunder storm chased the Tuscan Travelers out of town.
“It seldom rains day after day (in Tuscany),” according to a book on a shelf in Casa Spazzavento. “And if it does, you can wait out a shower in bed or at a café.”
Choosing naps over a café, the six travelers had lovely ones before eating at “the Olive Garden.” More about that on the ‘morrow.
Good night, all.