Marvellous Montone

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Today was truly a holiday. We got up late and walked into Montone. We discovered the bakers where we bought fresh bread for lunch and then wandered on into and around the village. The village is very small, but is divided into 3 regions or quarters, each with their own church. There are several restaurants and of course the cafe on the piazza. We had a lunch time drink at the cafe and Harriet and Toby tested out the gelato. It may not have been the best quality but it gained points for location.

We went into one of the churches and once more we were blown away by the art in every church. Above the altar was a hole in the ceiling which let light flood in over a dove symbolising the Holy Spirit. It was impressive, beautiful and divine in the original sense of the word.

At the opposite end of the village there is a museum. We didn't go in but enjoyed the views which were over our villa. The whole village have no need for watches as the village clock chimes every quarter. The hour is sounded by one deep tone for each hour and then a higher tone is sounded for each quarter.

We spent more time in the pool in the afternoon, Harriet did some homework and then we drove to a small village up the road. The only reason to visit was for the award winning gelato. We went with high expectations and were sadly let down. The flavours were a little weak, but the texture was good.

Back in the village for our aperitivi, tonight we ordered campari and prosecco. We took our cards along with us and played a game in the piazza. We felt very local, except that once more we didn't have the same drink as everyone else. We'll figure it out somehow!

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