After spending yesterday exploring Bologna, the four of us decided to explore one of the local trails on the outskirts of the city -- joining in the process many Italians on their Sunday walks. Dave selected a 15k out & back trail that took us up, up, beyond the city streets along fragrant trails on a perfectly warm and sunny Italian morning. It's an interesting observation how lovely Bologna smells. And while the smell of Italian cooking certainly enhances the atmosphere, more than that it is the honeysuckle, rose, fig, olive and many flowering plants (both cultivated and wild) that create the lovely perfumed air of the city.
The romantic ambience further is promoted by street musicians, cuddling couples, happy dogs (and there are many in all shapes and sizes), sidewalk cafes and the art that seems to grace every door, portico, window and roof.
We've had two days to explore the city, and still it is with a certain wistfulness that we'll walk out tomorrow. Bologna, I think, has surprised us with a with its quaint and open hearted feel.
And our closing thought: an Italian observation of US politics (seen on a car parked along the trail today). No commentary here, just an unexpected sighting.
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