Medieval magic

A successful first trimester is celebrated with carols, candlelight and a wander discovering the most beautiful cribs and nativity scenes across the city. The Christmas lights and window displays seem to compliment rather than cheapen the history and heritage here. Somehow Firenze holds on to its medieval magic. Ancient narrow streets, arches, bell towers, the slow moving river and worn flagstones tell a story of Christmases past. If we closed our eyes and ears to open them in Lorenzo de' Medici's time - what would we hear, see, smell? I wish for that possibility - a glimpse of the history, culture, creativity, intelligence, productivity of the Renaissance - but in the same moment embrace what is here now while I am lucky enough to do so.