Flourished Florence
ITALY
Within the Tuscany region of Italy lies a small city, famed for its rich Renaissance views - Florence. Pretty as a picture from the hilltops of the Piazzale Michelangelo, the dome of the Duomo reveals itself above the surrounding buildings. The Old Bridge (Ponte Vecchio) uniquely distinguished from any of the others. The Piazza della Signoria speckled with sculptures. The excitement of the bustling markets and the glistening Arno River, tying everything together, making Florence a treasured Italian city.
Exquisite panoramic views of Florence can be had, by heading up into the Tuscan hills to the 'Piazzale Michelangelo' square. As the name suggests, it's dedicated to the great Renaissance artist himself. The square is a popular destination for it's breathtaking terrain, that your eyes will sweep over repeatedly, so that you can take it in again and again. In the center of the square there is a bronze replica statue of Michelangelo's acclaimed 'David,' overlooking the city. You can do the same, by sitting at one of the cafes in the area to watch the sun descend on the region, it will be an image stamped in your memory forever, simply stunning.
7th September 2014
Wandering through the heart of the city, you'll stumble across the 'Duomo' or more formally known as the 'Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore.' Completed around 1436, it is a work of constructed art. Built from pink, green and white marble, with every section intricately craved to the finest detail, making the exterior far exceeding the gothic style interior within. So unlike many other cathedrals, the beauty of this one has been turned inside out. Entry into the Duomo is free and although you would have already witnessed the best from the view point outside, it's only fair to see what this beauty holds.
The oldest bridge in Florence is the 'Ponte Vecchio' (Old Bridge). This bridge extends across the Arno River, dating back to around the year 1345. It's a unique bridge and is easily distinguished from the others, with the entire bridge span consisting of shop buildings down along both sides, once having been occupied by butchers and grocers, now filled with jewellery merchants selling gold, silver and diamonds. The bridge is for pedestrians only, and for pedestrians only it is. Saturated with people window shopping and taking photos of the view. However the best view of the 'Ponte Vecchio' is best appreciated from another bridge.
The 'Piazza della Signoria' is Florence's main square. Surrounded by many cafes and restaurants and consisting of an open-air gallery, displaying Renaissance sculptures positioned under the 'Loggia dei Lanzi'. From there, you can also see the 'Fountain of Neptune' and another reproduction of Michelangelo's 'David.' To see the authentic piece of 'David,' once crafted by the Michelangelo himself, head to the 'Accademia Gallery Museum,' where the 5.17 metre white marbled sculpture resides.
Two popular markets in Florence is the 'Loggia del Marcato Nuovo' and the 'San Lorenzo,' also known as the Central Market (Marcato Centrale).
The Loggia del Marcato Nuovo is a small and cosy market, located a short walk up the street from the Old Bridge. The market was built in the 16th Century as an undercover market, with the roofing held up by multiple stone columns throughout. During the earlier periods the market sold luxury goods such as silks. Nowadays the market sells leather products and souvenirs catered more for the many tourists.
The San Lorenzo market consists of two markets - an outdoor market, running along side the San Lorenzo Cathedral and down a couple of streets, selling leather goods/souvenirs and an indoor market selling food produce.
The excitement and bargains at Florence markets is what makes them popular, but beware of paying top dollar for fake leather goods. Florence is a haven for leather goods, having stores practically down every street, but know your leathers so that you're not getting cut short.
Florence is a fine flourished Tuscan city with award winning views. Riding with a history composed of great Renaissance artistry, fashioning the city landscape into one as beautiful as its name reflects. The heart of the city throbs with life, with locals and tourists flowing through every street vein, beating around town. From architectural beauties to lively markets and scenic scopes - this is one city sight for sore eyes… truly gorgeous, go visit!