Italy is famous for many of its cities, and oneof the most beautiful is Florence, located at the northern foot of the Apennines of the Arno River. Florence is considered the world center of tourism and the most beautiful Italian city, where there are interesting sights, which is the birthplace of the Renaissance: it was here that the best of the best works and creations of famous artists, musicians, architects and sculptors were created. All the sights of this city Italy and other countries belong to the world classics. The wealth of the city in the magnificent cultural and, accordingly, architectural monuments that delight any tourist and guest at first sight.
Florence as the center of world culture. Foundation of Florence
Florence is part of Tuscany (the formerprovince), the rich history of which goes far into the past. For a long time, the Etruscans lived in these places, as evidenced by the excavations carried out, which resulted in the discovery of absolutely invaluable works of this people. The city itself was founded by ancient Romans in 59 BC. These places are famous for their picturesqueness. Especially beautiful is the Florentine nature in the spring months, when the surrounding green hills bloom with beautiful flowers. This "zest" and gave the name of the city. For all the time the city had to go through many different events: the change of religion, the emerging new culture, decline, war, the change of power and the management structure. But all this made the city even better. The heyday to Florence came with the reign of Cosimo de 'Medici, which lasted from 1434 to 1737. It was a kind of ruler who, during his time, did not take any title and remained a citizen until the end of his life. He always adhered to the republican form of government (signoria - a government of 8 people). He loved art, collected various works, books. His orders to architects, sculptors and artists provided support and patronage to talented people of art.
The wealth of Florence: a brilliant work of art
Florence, like all of Italy, is the greatesta cultural center that can not be imagined without the works of such brilliant talents as Leonardo da Vinci, Botticelli, Michelangelo. They are still considered masterpieces, they decorate various buildings and squares, being a visiting card of the city. In different periods in this city lived and, accordingly, created Galileo Galilei, Dante, helped our compatriots Dostoevsky and Tchaikovsky. It is simply impossible to view all the sights of the city, and not only not a week, but a month will suffice. To get acquainted with all the museums, galleries, architectural structures, you need a long time to stay or live in the city. And to see everything, you just need to move there to live.
Cathedral of Santa Maria - the pearl of Florence
Italy has the most beautiful temples inworld. The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is without doubt the pearl of Florence. The building rises above the whole city. In its construction, the famous architects and artists took an active part. The foundation of the cathedral was laid in 1294 by the architect Arnolfo di Cambio, other important masters also took an active part in the construction of the cathedral: Brunelleschi, Francesco Talenti, Andrea Pisano, Giotto. A noteworthy part of the cathedral is its facade, executed in the 19th century in the Florentine Gothic style, and the bell tower (14th century), decorated with statues and medallions, although at the moment instead of them their copies are used, and all the interested persons can get acquainted with the original in the cathedral museum. Inspiring is the interior of the cathedral: magnificent statues and sculptural tombstones. The cathedral museum exhibits the richest collections of cultural treasures, among which are the statues of Pollajolo, Donatello and the exquisite works of Michelangelo.
Piazza della Signoria is Florence's most beautiful place
Undoubtedly, Italy is famous for its beauty, andthe most beautiful place is considered to be the Piazza della Signoria. In this place there are cult places of interest in the city, so visitors should definitely check them out. The main building on the square is Palazzo Vecchio Palace, which was built according to the project created by Arnolfo di Cambio. This is a significant building in its power and massiveness with a view more like a fortress, crowned with a clock tower. The entrance to the palace is decorated with the inscription "The Tsar rules, and God rules", placed in a medallion with figures of lions and a monogram of Christ. It was made according to the order of K. Medici. In addition to the palace, on the square there is a fountain of Neptune (16th century), a statue of Cosimo de 'Medici, sculptures and other works by the best masters. Undoubtedly, all the statues are just copies, the originals are in the museum for their better preservation.
Florence's most popular attractions
Italy will be remembered by the guests of the country and otherpopular sights. For example, it is Florence that is famous for the church of Santa Croce. This is one of the great creations of Arnolfo di Cambio, executed in the Gothic style. Work on its construction was started in 1294, but the church was consecrated only 250 years later. In addition, with great pleasure vacationers visit the famous museums: the Palatine Gallery and the Uffizi Gallery, which feature the best works of Italian, Venetian, Florentine schools. It is worth noting that the galleries feature works by Flemish authors. The Uffizi Gallery was built by the order of the Medici family in the 16th century, after which it was donated to the city of Florence. Expositions of the gallery are the works of Michelangelo, Botticelli, Ghirlandaio, Piero del Francesca, Giotto Cimabue, Leonardo da Vinci.
Tips for tourists who dream of getting to know Florence better
Italy offers its guests a lot of places,which are definitely worth seeing. Where to recover and which places to see first? In order not to get confused, it is best to make a certain route. For example, most travelers use travel guides, which are presented with a short course of acquaintance with the city of Florence and the main attractions:
And this is only part of what can pleaseItaly and, in particular, Florence its tourists, holidaymakers, travelers. It's no secret that even residents who live in the city do not always have time to see the sights of their city.