Day Nine- 
[This is where I started journaling while on the trip- days one through eight were written after we came back, while looking through the photos for the chronology of events]

Backside of the Palazzo Municipale in Ferrara.

Well, we couldn't find a cheap last minute room in Padova, so we skipped over it to the charming town of Ferrara tonight, which so far seems like a fine move. Our room here is cheap ($68), spacious, cool, and near the train station, all things we enjoy. On our afternoon stroll (have to stroll, 'cause it's HOT in the afternoon!) we took in the Piazza and the requisite Cattedrale (for its cool shadows) and then up to the Casa Romei, a restored 15th century palazzo that had great decorations from medieval period on, some brought there from churches that had been destroyed. Its been heartening to see many buildings being well cared for on this trip. 

The Casa Romei in Ferrara is a well preserved house built in the 16th century

On the way back to the hotel, we sat in the Piazza for a while to watch the citizens emerge and mingle on their way home. This city loves bikes! Everyone rides one, from kids to grannies! Finally, after picking up some groceries to eat in the room (that way we can afford some splurgy food when we want) we spotted a couple of Stile Liberty (Italian Art Nouveau) houses just around the corner from where we are staying. What a treat! 

Entry to a house called the Villa Melchiori in Ferrara. Sunflowers are the theme of its decorations. Italian Art Nouveau is known as Stile Liberty

Tomorrow we will see the Castello Estense, the Palazzina Marfisa d'Este, and the Palazzo Schifanoia. I think we have determined that we really need two days to do any town- we're just not good at hit and run visits. Going to rent bikes too, so we can join the locals!

Everyone rides a bike in Ferrara. Come to the piazza in the early evening to see the whole town come by!