Florence - a Renaissance delight
At one time Florence was a vital part of the “Grand Tour” undertaken by wealthy young British people as part of their education, due to its pivotal role during the Renaissance, and its magnificent art and architecture. Today Florence, or as it is known in Italian, Firenze, is still an integral part of the itinerary of those wishing to have an overview of the culture of Europe.
The cathedral Santa Maria del Fiore has an impressive dome built by famed Renaissance architect Filippo Brunelleschi. Nearby is the Campanile Tower which was partly designed by Giotto, whose accurate and realistic style had great influence on the course of the Renaissance.
In the very center of the city is the Piazza della Signoria with the wonderful Fountain of Neptune by Bartolomeo Ammannati. The elegant figure of Neptune, surrounded by merry satyrs and beautiful seahorses, represents the link between Florence and the sea.
Over the River Arno there is the remarkable Ponte Vecchio, literally meaning “Old Bridge”, and dating back to medieval times. It is one of the few bridges in the world to actually have buildings on it - these are now mainly shops, many of which are jewelers, and walking across the bridge resembles a stroll down an old narrow street, with eye catching shop windows and architecture in every direction.
Like much of Italy, Florence has delightful gelateria selling many different flavors of delicious ice cream, such as pistachio, chocolate, strawberry, peach, coffee, mint – a peep into these shops is like looking at a giant paint box of many colors. Also found here are relaxing restaurants where you can enjoy authentic Italian pizza and pasta, as well as main courses of meat and poultry dishes with fresh vegetables, which can be followed by delicious desserts and great Italian coffee.
Filed under: Italy
