Considered as the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is full of history and heritage. With its incredible architecture and numerous monuments, the UNESCO declared its historic centre as a World Heritage Site in 1982. Attracting millions of visitors every year, Florence and its sumptuous treasures are waiting for you. To get you started, here are four wonderful places to visit in Florence.
Ponte Vecchio
Crowded with tourists during summer, home of musicians, artisans and artists throughout the year, the Ponte Vecchio is one of Florence’s main point of interest. Also known as Old Bridge, the Ponte Vecchio was first documented in 996, but was destroyed in 1117, and again in 1333. The structure we can admire today was constructed in 1345. Back then, it was very common for people to live on bridges, especially in busy European countries like Florence. Nowadays, houses have been converted into shops where tourists can hope to find all sorts of artifacts such as jewelry, valuable antiques or leather items.
Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore
One of the most noticeable landmarks is the Basilica di Santa del Fiore, also known as Florence Cathedral. With an area of 8,300 square meters, it is one of the largest church in the world. Whereas it was built in 1367, the facade of the Cathedral and its emblematic dome were only finished in the 19th century. With its mesmerizing stained glass designed by famous artists such as Donatello, Andrea del Castagno and Paolo Uccello and its outside walls covered with colored marbles, the Cathedral attracts visitors from all over the world. Moreover, the bell tower and huge dome offer a unique view of Florence, always leaving us speechless.
Uffizi Gallery
As Italy’s most visited art museum, and the 25th most popular in the world, the Uffizi Gallery contains an impressive collection of paintings and sculptures. Cosimo I de’ Medici, Grand Duke of Tuscany ordered the construction of the Uffizi building in 1560. Its original purpose was not to be a gallery but to accommodate the administrative offices of Florentine magistrates. Over time, the edifice was transformed into an art gallery. According to some writings, Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo, among other artists, often gathered at the Uffizi as a recreation place. In 1765, the Uffizi Gallery officially opened to the public, for the rest of the world to find inspiration.
Palazzo Vecchio
The fortress-palace and its impressive asymmetrical tower, Florence’s town hall is an absolute must-see. Its construction began in 1299, over the ruins of the Roman Theater of Ancient Florentia, dating back to the first century A.D. One of the most unusual parts of this edifice is its 94-meter tower, Torre d’Arnolfo, named after its architect, Arnolfo di Cambio. Surprisingly, the tower in not centered with the rest of the fortification, because an ancient tower from the Foraboschi Palace was incorporated into the building. Also, note that the clock has a single hand, which was usual at the time. Although you might think it is broken, it functions perfectly. As you admire this beautiful fortress, try to figure out what time it is!
To get a better understanding of the fantastic heritage Florence has to offer, you have to experience the city by yourself. Fortunately, Florence is very well connected to other Italian cities with high-speed trains running many times per day. Book your train tickets online from Hello Italy Tours, and let the journey begin!