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One of Italy¿s most atmospheric and pleasant cities, Florence has stayed close to its roots and still resembles the small,
late-medieval city that it once was. The cultural and historical impact Florence has had on the world is overwhelming. Birthplace
of the Renaissance, Florence is full of striking buildings, formidable galleries, and treasure-crammed churches that are just
waiting to be explored.
MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS
The Uffizi Gallery
One of the most famous museums of paintings and sculptures in the world, the Uffizi Gallery contains a magnificent collection of
Primitive and Renaissance paintings comprising of several universally acclaimed masterpieces of all time, including works by Giotto,
Fra Angelico, Filippo Lippi, Botticelli, Mantegna, Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Michelangelo and Caravaggio. German, Dutch and Flemish
masters are also well represented with important works by Dürer, Rembrandt and Rubens.
The Duomo
Predominant in Florence¿s skyline, Brunelleschi¿s sloping, red-tiled Duomo (cathedral) is an engineering masterpiece and the first
building of its kind since antiquity.
Ponte Vecchio
One of the city¿s most cherished structures, the Ponte Vecchio (Old Bridge) is one of the most famous crossings in the world. Built
in 1345 on the narrowest point of the Arno River, this bridge has survived floods and was the only bridge not blown away in WWII by
the retreating Germans. Once home to the city¿s tanneries and butchers, the bridge is now home to lots of little jewellery shops.
Galleria dell¿Accademia
The city¿s most famous resident is still Michelangelo¿s David, which is housed in this gallery ¿ the world¿s first formal academy of
art and architecture (built in 1562). Sculpted by Michelangelo in 1504 from a long and narrow piece of marble, David is the largest
statue since Roman times standing at 5 metres or 16-feet high. The gallery is also home to many other exquisite sculptures, including
Michelangelo¿s Slaves and the original Rape of Sabine by Giambologna, for many the best Mannerist sculpture in existence.
HIDDEN TREASURES
Giardino di Boboli (Boboli Gardens)
For a break from all the city¿s buildings, art and bustling squares, check out these beautifully maintained gardens, originally laid out
in the 16th century for Cosimo I and his ailing wife. Here you will find the amphitheatre that hosted the world¿s first opera in 1600,
Stoldo Lorenzi¿s Neptune Fountain (1598), and the 18th century Kaffeehaus, with snacks and great views of the city. Wander down the
cypress-lined paths as you explore the many beautiful little ponds, gardens and plants.
Basilica di San Lorenzo
Florence was once home to the powerful Medici family, and this is their parish church, rebuilt by Brunelleschi in 1425. One of the most
amazing examples of Renaissance architecture you¿ll see, this church is also home to the Balcony of the Holy Relics, a little-known work
by Michelangelo, as well as two dark bronze pulpits, Donatello¿s last works before his death.
Museo di San Marco
This fascinating museum occupies the deconsecreated 13th century convent of San Marco and is dedicated to Fra Angelico (1400-1455), a
monk/religious art master. His various works of art have been gathered from throughout Florence and are now housed here. The most
inspiring works can be found in the 44 tiny cells, each of which is adorned with a fresco by the artist and his assistants to inspire
the lonely monks in prayer.
TOP SHOPPING
- Designer labels, including the world¿s best-known Florentine trademark, Gucci, can be found here
- Il Gatto Bianco (White Cat) is a great little shop off the Ponte Vecchio where you can find all sorts of wonderful, affordable and unique jewellery.
- For shoes that make a statement, women can visit Sergio Rossi¿s shop.
TIP SHEET
- Like Rome, Florence is a walking city, bring comfortable walking shoes.
- Avoid wearing short skirts or shorts or showing bare arms in most churches (women should take a light shawl).
- Beware of pickpockets in tourist areas, especially the historic centre and Stazione di Santa Maria Novella.
- In summer, the heat and humidity soars; winters are cool and often wet but it never lasts that long.
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