The misconceptions we have

Pisa was interesting. What the post cards and TV doesn't show is that it is a small town, and does not appear to reflect it's income. We drove through the neighbourhoods on the way to the official bus parking lot - the size of which is evidence of how busy it gets in summer. 

Our driver and guide were both stunned they'd finally fixed the road leading into town, apparently for years it was in a very bad state of repair - this is a town that gets €200 per bus that comes in - and in summer, that'll be at least 200 buses a day!

The town itself looked low-mid socio-economic. It's hard to describe without sounding elitist or worse. However once we passed through the gates to the town centre suddenly it was picturesque, perfect postcard looks, neatly manicured lawns with beautiful classical, but well maintained, walls.

It's very evident that Pisa knows where it's money comes from and only spends it precisely where it must. Money does not flow outside the walls.

My tour guide explained privately that despite the significant wealth coming in, somehow a lot of it "disappears". 

I am reminded, on a much smaller scale, of the great pyramids of Egypt and what they look like from the other direction, facing towards the town. 

Time: 1730h