Florence, the spectacular capital of the region of Tuscany, is located on Italy’s northwest coast. It is a stunning medieval city divided into two parts by the River Arno that flows from the Apennines through Florence and Pisa and on to the Ligurian Sea. Florence is considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world with its overflow of palaces, churches and museums filled with masterful paintings and sculptures. The city experienced its time of greatness in the 14th century when the powerful family of the Medicis made its entry onto the world scene, eventually becoming bankers to the papacy. Cosimo Medici became the ruler of Florence and sponsored artist such as Donatello, Brunelleschi and Filippo Lippi. In 1469, the grandson of Cosimo, Lorenzo, took over power. He was responsible for the great development of art, music and poetry; and was a patron to philosophers and artist such as Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo. From 1860 to 1875, Florence was the capital of Italy. However, the 20th century was a disastrous century for the city. It was one of Mussolini’s most faithful strongholds and was badly damaged during WWII by retreating Germans, who blew up all the city’s bridges except the Ponte Vecchio. In 1966, devastating floods ravaged the city, causing inestimable damage to its buildings and artworks, some of which are still being restored. Today, the city leads quite an existence; and strolling the streets of Florence might deceive you to think that you have walked into a former age. Florence still is much more than a tourist destination; it is a divine spot, one of the few historically rich and vivid locations on Earth that speaks out to you in a resonant voice about its magnificence. Apart from the overwhelming art and cultural treasures, the city offers one of the Italy’s most atmospheric and pleasant places to visit. The streets of Florence radiate the charm of Italian culture. It has a wonderful countryside, featuring picturesque villages and vineyards, making for a perfect day excursion. Food and wine lovers won’t be disappointed in Florence; there are much delightful Italian wines and dishes to try.
Florence
