Ciao! For our second day in Italy we visited the city of Cortona! The city was one of the most beautiful places I have ever laid eyes on. We started off the day with breakfast at the villa. We took the bus to Cortona and visited the Camucia market. We bought fruit and vegetables to cook with dinner that evening and were able to walk around the market and search for clothing and Italian goods. The local produce was extremely large and fresh, unlike any American produce in grocery stores. It was such a neat experience and I would love to go back. 

 Next, we visited the Santa Margherita Cathedral. The artwork inside was gorgeous! It was a massive historic, hilltop cathedral that was originally built by the Camaldolese Monks in the 11th century and dedicated to Margherita di Cortona. Her actual body is mummified and placed at the back of the Cathedral. 

After, we were able to walk around the city and shops of Cortona and eat lunch on our own. I got a Margherita Pizza for only 5 euros and it was delicious! After the town, visited an Italian grocery store, named "Coop." They had mostly fresh produce, meats and cheeses and the prices were exceptional to American standards. I bought probably $50 worth and only spent 20 euros. It reminded me a lot of a Trader Joes and Aldi back in America.

In the evening, we came back the villa and were able to take a hands-on cooking class with authentic Italian chefs. It was one of the best experiences here in Italy and we made homemade pasta, meatballs, and a salad with the items we collected at the market earlier in the day. The meal was delicious and I cannot wait to make it for my family back at home!