Florence
Florence Travel Guide – Things to Do, Food & Hotels
Where to stay in Florence
Florence itineraries
Travel plan 2 days: Must see in florence
Your Perfect 2-Day Florence Itinerary This 2-day Florence travel plan is designed for travelers who want to see the highlights of the city in an
Travel plan 5 days: medieval tour in Tuscany.
Medieval tour in Tuscany Go back to the Middle Ages for five days. Medieval tour in Tuscany: Discover the medieval treasures of Tuscany beyond the
History of Florence
During the 13th century, Florence was one of the important rising cities in Europe. But the period of economic prosperity met its end with the Hundred Years War. The lower classes revolted against the Major Guilds in a famous riot known as the “Ciompi” uprising. Sooner, the city was split into two parts. The division was between those who remained their support to the old oligarchy and, on the other hand, are those who supported a more modest class, represented by the Medici family. During the first part of the 16th century, Florence was having difficulty in its politics. When Gian Gastone, the last member of the Medici family, died. He did not leave any heir resulting at the end of Florence’s grandeur until 1737. Afterward, Tuscany, including Florence, was under Austrian rule.
In 1820, the famous Florence Nightingale was born in the city. In 1861, the city became part of the newly united kingdom of Italy. It became the capital of Italy in 1865 but later on replaced by Rome in 1871. The Second World War was harsh for Florence when the Germans occupied it. However, after the war, Florence recovered and grew its population and prospered. In 1982, Florence was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is now a popular tourist destination for many are drawn to its art and architecture.
Top Attractions
Santa Maria del Fiore
It is internationally known today as the world’s largest masonry dome. In addition, the majestic cathedral is home to 600 years worth of magnificent artworks and architecture. Santa Maria del Fiore is located in the heart of the Metropolitan City of Florence.
Ponte Vecchio
Completed in 1345 by Taddeo Gaddi, Ponte Vecchio means “Old Bridge” in Italian, is an outstanding work of engineering built during Europe’s Middle Ages. The Ponte Vecchio is the oldest and the most famous of the six bridges that cross Florence’s Arno River.
Da Vinci Museum
The Da Vinci Museum tour will show you the works of art by the famous Leonardo Da Vinci. It’s an interactive museum that houses an extensive collection of models constructed based on Leonardo’s drawings. The Museum is located in Vinci, Leonardo da Vinci’s birthplace, in Florence, Italy.
Churches and Basilica
Santa Maria del Fiore
This cathedral is the city’s most iconic landmark. Santa Maria del Fiore is considered to be one of the world’s biggest churches. It is also famous for its Gothic-Renaissance architecture and art.
Santa Maria Novella
It was built in the 14th century, and since then, it has become one of the most important monastic complexes in Italy. The basilica holds extraordinary works of art. It is also located near a train station making it easy to find.
Santa Croce
It is considered the second most famous church in Florence. Santa Croce is known for the many tombs of great artists, writers, and scientists buried there, like Galileo, Machiavelli, and the great Michelangelo.
San Lorenzo
Basilica is one of the oldest and most significant Renaissance churches in Florence. San Lorenzo is the home to the Medici Chapels, the burial place of the Medici family. It is situated at the center of the city’s main market district making it easier for tourists to visit.