Torre San Niccolò (Tower of St Nicholas) was once part of the gate in Florence’s defensive wall. It was allegedly designed by Arnolfo di Cambio, who was also the alleged designer of the Duomo (minus the dome), Santa Croce and Santa Maria Novella; in other words, all the major medieval churches of Florence. So the traditional attributions are suspect.

In any event, the Torre survived 19th century urban renewal in part because it gives you a great view of the city when you climb the 160 steps. Or so I’m told because no way I’m going up. From the bottom you can see the steps are open.

The Torre’s name, the church of San Niccolò and this eastern neighbourhood on the south side of the Arno River are named for Saint Nicholas (Santa, Father Christmas).

We climbed up the hill nearby.

Started with a lesson on colour mixing.

I decided to continue with the Duomo theme.

We then went up further to Piazzale Michelangelo where we visited on Christmas 2009. It is very popular for its views.

But it was going to be a high of 30 and there was very little shade. Most of us found a spot in the shade where we needed to stand to sketch. The hedge was laurel leaves (related to bay leaves) which made it a fragrant spot for a makeshift easel.

After class most of us decided to stay to watch the sunset. Luckily we found a spot at La Loggia bistrot where we could have a view, a drink and a taglierie (charcuterie).

The colours during the sunset don’t display accurately in the photo but it was a very subtle but colourful display.