Florence, Theme Park Of Renaissance
The Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Flower, or Duomo di Firenze, as it is called in Italy, is one of the most amazing works of architecture in the world. I still remember the first time we saw it. We were strolling towards the center through the narrow streets, enjoying aromas of Italian coffee and cuisine when the Duomo unexpectedly appeared. It really stands out by its size. It is simply oversized! It has definitely preserved its height supremacy and volumetric domination of the rest of the city.
Its Building commenced in 1296 and the exterior is decorated in pink, green and white marble. Entering the cathedral through the tremendous bronze doors that depict the life of "The Madonna" you will find a modest and calm setting where you admire the hand painted Dome showing "The Final Judgement".
From the top of the Santa Maria del Fiore
With a little bit of work on your end, as there are plenty of stairs to climb, Duomo di Firenze will graciously treat you with one of the best views in the world, offering a unique opportunity to enjoy the city and Tuscany panorama from 115 meters hight. Breathtaking emotions and impressions are however difficult to convey with words. To understand you have to experience it.
Glimpse of the city
When you say Florence people think Michelangelo’sDavid and Botticelli’s Venus, but there are several wonderful little churches and museums. For example, the center of the city is scattered with Dante’s verses: the walls of medieval buildings become pages of the Divine Comedy! Therefore, everywhere you look, there is a beautiful medieval building, an art gallery or a beautiful sculpture. The bridges of Florence have an important role in Florence's cityscape, therefore we dedicated an entire story for them. Check it out here!
Piazzale Michelangelo
You must come to the famous Piazzale Michelangelo for a magnificent panoramic view of Florence. It is dedicated to the great Renaissance artist Michelangelo and has copies of his famous works. It takes a little legwork and there are a few easy ways to get there, but once you are there, you will enjoy a stunning view of Florence and Arno Valley. You will notice how the Arno River naturally splits Florence in two sides, that are linked through beautiful bridges.
Palazzo Pitti and the gardens
The Palazzo Pitti it is a stunning Renaissance palace, almost always overshadowed by its more famous counterparts, the Uffizi, Accademia (where the David Statue is located), and the Palazzo Vecchio. It has an impressive collection of art and the building was the royal residence of the Medici, and even Napoleon stayed there for a bit. The size and grandeur of the Palazzo Pitti and its gardens were one of the inspirations for Versailles. What a beautiful day we had here, after a marathon of art and architecture, strolling through the gardens!
