Life in Italy is not always easy. This photo is typical of many places where staircases, steps, and inclined walkways are the norm. The first set of steps is in Positano on the Amalfi Coast, and the next photo is from the small town of Varenna on Lake Como.
Not only are there numerous steps to navigate, but as you can see, the material they are made from is uneven and can be dangerous for someone without proper shoes. I look at these places as photo opportunities, but also as examples of why it pays to get in shape before a trip to the Bel Paese.
What are your thoughts? Have you been to places like this on your travels? I’d love to hear from you so please leave a comment.
Grazie and Ciao
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stellalucentellc
Lovely photos, Margie. There is something truly beautiful about the mountains and those paths that all Italian cities seem to be built around. I am always amazed when I see even the older women doing their daily shopping up and down those hills. Perhaps that is what helps them to live a long life!
margieinitaly
Yes, Kathy…I feel the same..Italians are hearty and take all these steps in stride without complaining…No wonder they live to be older than their counterparts in the US. Thank you for sharing your perspective.
victoriabenchley
I see a little bench half way up the second flight of steps. I might rest there. I try to keep my head down so I don’t stumble. I climbed to the top of St. Peters with the slanted walls, so I don’t think these stairs would daunt me — that almost gave me vertigo!
margieinitaly
Good eyes, Victoria…I have had to take a rest part of the way up these hills and staircases..Nothing wrong with that…Good for you for climbing to the top of St Peter’s – Brava!!
drlisaort
Yes, so true…but I LOVE the way it looks even if there are challenges climbing up and down the winding stairs. Italy is breathtaking!!!
margieinitaly
Thank you Dr Lisa…It is really so worth it, isn’t it???
Amber Bourke
This is very true! I live in Padova and my 70 something grandmother from Australia came to visit me last year and couldn’t believe the amount of stairs everywhere. Obviously, she thought it was beautiful but she definitely felt the burn each day.
margieinitaly
Thanks Amber…Very true. I think until someone actually comes to Italy and spends time they have no idea how much walking Italians do.
Amber Bourke
Absolutely, and how fit they all generally are. Even the older generations. Here in Padova, people of all ages are always out running, walking or riding their bikes.
karenincalabria
Absolutely, but what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger!
margieinitaly
Thanks Karen…And you know it to be true