Gardens and Napoleon

Yesterday I did a lot of walking.  First I met my advisor and a girl that she is tutoring in learning English.  She wanted her to talk to someone who is a native English speaker.  The girl is 17 and pretty shy.  We just sat and drank coffee and talked about the differences between the US and Italy.  We were in the shopping district so afterwards I wandered into some shops and found a store that sells books in English!  I bought Ken Follett's Pillars of the Earth.  

After shopping I went to the Public Gardens and Modern Art Gallery.  The Art Gallery is a huge villa that was built in the 1700's by some famous architect.  But, it was the residence of Napoleon when he invaded Italy.  It's backyard is considered the first English garden in the city.  There were a lot of families there for the afternoon.  

That huge building is the Napoleon villa.

This is the front of the building.  The interior still retains it's historic decorations, chandeliers, and windows.  Plus!  It was free admittance!  

Sculpture hallway.

Amore and Psyche

Going up the stairs.

I think this was a dining room or living room.

The painting on the far wall is a very famous portrait of Napoleon's wife.

I'm assuming this was the ballroom.

Across the street from the Gallery are the City Public Gardens.  Less crowded than Parco Sempione but maybe less nice to look at.  I still enjoyed it though.

Water fountain found in random parts of the city.

Well get excited because much more exciting posts should be coming up!  Paris is next weekend and then Vienna two weeks after that!  Ciao Ciao!

Duomo

Ok this is my last post today, I promise!  I figure that it is easier for you if I divide everything into separate entries.  I spent a little time in the Duomo today because it was bright out so I figured the lighting would be better.  It is the most difficult place to take photos in.  I did my best so here are some pictures to look at.  Keep in mind how small the people are compared to the pillars and the rest of the building.  It is impossible to portray the massiveness of the Cathedral, even in Photos.  At the entrance to the Duomo there are guards to make sure women are dressed appropriately.  I was turned away last week even though I was completely covered.  I had leggings on and a long sweater dress.  You could see no skin at all.  Stupid guards on a power trip.

The red light at the very top is where they keep the nail from the actual crucifix.

Confessionals

Restoration and cleaning in action.

Under the altar.

Remains of an old Bishop.

Under the altar from the outside.

I think that every scene from the  bible is portrayed in stained glass here.

One side of the organ.

Devotionals