Verona in Some Pelting Rain

                                                         

Buon giorno,

Only one photo today--a view from Porta Nuova that I crossing going to and from the National Archaeological Museum of Verona. I happen to enjoy looking at Prehistoric remains, but I realize this is not for everyone.

When I set out it was pouring and chilly. I found my target and then my umbrella malfunctioned. I couldn't close it!  The nice men at the museum assured me that it was fine to leave it open as I visited the museum. I left my bags in a locker and proceeded upstairs.

Now it happens that this area with its rivers valleys and proximity to the Alps, has been a favored spot for human habitation starting with the Neanderthals. They co-existed with Homo Sapiens for a while. At any rate the collection is rich and varied from the Mousterian right up until Roman occupation.

The artifacts are well exhibited, and I appreciated the informative placards explaining what was in the cases. One thing I found especially fascinating was the rocks painted with ochre or engraved with figures of animals.

When I emerged it was still raining hard, and it was cold. I came home and managed to close my umbrella. Whew! If I couldn't close it, I would not be able to pack it. I made myself a cup of tea and turned oin the bike race.

Yes, amici, it's Il Giro d'Italia--a crucial stage with a steep long climb to finish. I do not know how the riders manage to get themselves up hills, I'd be hard pressed to climb on foot.  The crummy weather also is infesting the South of Italy where the race is now. Slippery roads are dangerous roads.  But the stage may do much to establish the eventual winner.

Pil, you understand that most people regard your passion for European road cycling as bizaare.

I do understand, and I don't care.  Jonas Vingegaard may be on the verge of winning All Three Grand Tours. But apart from the actual race, a helicopter flies around showing us the gorgeous Italian countryside plus any historic spots the race is near.  This encourages tourism. Some of us do not need such encouragement. 

Dinner is linguine with pesto. So simple and yet so divine. When the hot pasta hits the pesto the scent of the basil rises. Oooh!

Ciao for now.