Another Dome Climb
A peek through the window on the way to the top reveals the nicely framed Palazzo Vecchio.

The signs recommend that people with heart problems not attempt the 465 stairs to the cupola.

Feeling stout of heart, I didn't worry, but the climb was rigorous and the stairway narrow, steps worn down in the center from centuries of foot traffic.

In addition, it was dark, the only light afforded now and then by small windows cut into thick walls.

Partway up, I took a detour to catch my breath, and for a closer examination of the frescos of the inner dome: vivid images of paradise and damnation.

Knowing a bit about the painstaking work of fresco painting, I had nothing but admiration for the artists' fortitude.

Returning to my climb I soon reached the top, joining numerous others on this high perch above the city. Several were camped out with sketchbooks, which was a tempting idea to me, but there was so much more to see and I couldn't resist the pull to move on.