Ivan Basso and his trophy glistened in the sunlight at the Arena of Verona, a beautiful finale to a fantastic Giro.

More photos on the flip...

Gilberto Simoni closed out his career to the cheers of the tifosi in the fittingly grand setting of the Arena of Verona.

After a brief interview on the stage, Gibo rode back up the runway to greet his family.

Basso's two children greeted him with open arms as he rode onto the Arena stage.

Stage winner Gustav Erik Larsson on the podium

Basso brought Domitilla and Santiago back out for the podium ceremony.

Basso was thrilled to get the final maglia rosa, but Santiago seemed more excited about the stuffed toy.

David Arroyo's son was another cutie.

The top three on the podium

I think Arroyo's little son got a bit bored as the podium ceremony dragged on, but Santiago was having a high old time.

The Liquigas team came onto the stage to applaud Basso when he got the trophy, then celebrated with him.

Matt Lloyd once again looked overjoyed with his hard-fought maglia verde.

Coming on stage to receive a career recognition award, Simoni wasn't about to be out-cute-babied by the likes of Ivan Basso.

La famiglia Simoni

The final press conference included the stage winner and the holders of all four jerseys.

And that's a wrap.

Time to start planning next year's trip!

Susie Hartigan for Podium Cafe