Visit Florence, Italy (UNESCO sites)

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Florence, Italy is the capital of the Italian region of Tuscany. Adjacent to the River Arno, Florence has a rich history of art and architecture. Established in 80BC by the Romans, the city was an important cog in the wheel of European trade in the middle ages as well as during the Renaissance (considered the birthplace of the cultural movement) and one of the richest cities of its time. Florence has a significant tourism industry attracting visitors from all over the world to view its architecture and monuments and to study its history and culture. Visitors to Florence find such iconic treasures as the domed Cathedral of the City, Santa Maria del Fiore (The Duomo); The Campanile (Bell Tower); The Baptistry of St. John with its artistically important bronze doors which Michelangelo had a hand in creating. In the Piazza del Signoria is found the world famous Fountain of Neptune, the center of government (The Uffizi) with the Palazzo della Signoria and the Loggia dei Lanzi where many important historical occurrences in the art world are memorialized. Among the significant museums of Florence tourists can count the Bargello, exhibiting works by Michelangelo, Donatello and Giambologna along with its other treasures. “David” by Michelangelo and the unfinished “Slaves” are found in the Accademia dell’Arte del Disegno. The incredible Palazzo Pitti, at one point the chief residence of the famous Medici family, is now the largest museum and gallery complex in Florence. Religious life has had primary focus in Florence through the ages and some of the other famous buildings and significant architectural examples associated with Christianity that are requisite inclusions of tourists itineraries are: Basilica of Santa Maria Novella, Basilica of San Lorenzo, Basilica of Santa Croce, Santo Spirito, Santissima Annunziata and the Medici Chapel along with many other important sites. Florence offers myriad parks, gardens, arches, palaces and squares that have significant historical importance. Being at the heart of the Tuscany region, Florence is a haven for food and wine lovers. Tuscany is one of the great wine growing regions of the world and the local cuisine is emulated and served throughout the world. Great places to eat and drink abound as do theaters and performance halls. If you have ever dreamed of visiting one of the great European cities intrinsic to the world of art and architecture then you must include a visit to Florence, Italy on your list. The biggest challenge you face is trying to figure out how to see and do everything.

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