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Florence Italy

INTRODUCTION

Florence is one of the largest cities in Italy, located in the Tuscany region. Best known for being the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, Florence is full of beautiful architecture and art. A city of history, it is filled with ancient churches and temples, along with the awe-inspiring Statue of David. A beautiful community where the local people make you feel very welcome. Florence makes for an exciting getaway where you can see and touch the past.

HISTORY

Florence dates back to Roman time and still bears parts of this history. As one of Caesar's colonies it was built between the meeting of the Arno and the Mugnone streams for protection. Florence fourished during the ninth and tenth centuries as the city began to gain more power. This city has been ravished by plague, political unrest and war. Florence is still an important center for art throughout the world.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

There is a large univeristy pressence in Florence. Many students from all over the world live there every semester to study. Due to this, a lot of people who work at restaurants and shops speak English.

The train station has two parts in Florence. If you can't find where your train should be leaving from you must go to the other section that is located through a covered pathway.

ATTRACTIONS

Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore - Famously known as the "Duomo", this basilica is often the image that comes to mind at the mention of Florence. The stone dome atop the basilica was a challenge to architects in the 1400's. The masterpiece of the Duomo, constructed by Brunelleschi contains over 4 million bricks. Travellers can visit the interior of the famous basilica, which has amazing artwork including the Last Judgement on the ceiling of the Duomo. Visitors can also climb the long, narrow stairs to the top of the Duomo and look out over the beautiful city of Florence and serene Italian countryside in the distance.

Church of Annunziata - This incredible Church was rebuilt somewhere inbetween 1444 and 1481 by Michelozzo. It has the most amazing feature at the front and you cant miss it with seven arches on columns that you walk straight through.

Church of Santa Felicita - This beautiful church was actually built on an old cemetery and was renovated back in 1736. The interior has a single nave with side chapels. Here you will also see amazing paintings by Pontormo

Galleria del Accademia - Containing multiple statues, this gallery is most famous for the original Statue of David by Michelangelo. The statue is breathtaking in person, and pictures cannot do it justice, which is why a visit to the Galleria del Academia is a must while in Florence.

Palazzo Museum - is a wonderful 14th century residence with a 16th century Loggia, the The museum's houses works of art , furniture, tapestries and domestic objects from the 14 - 18th century. A real trip back in time when you wander through this museum

Uffizi Gallery - This museum contains many famous paintings, most notably the Birth of Venus by Bodacelli. It is interesting while touring the artwork to watch it progress and become more realistic through the time periods. As the Uffizi Gallery is well-known, waiting time to enter can be up to four or five hours, but if tickets are purchased ahead of time it can speed up the process.

RESTAURANTS

LODGING

Hotel Leonardo Da Vinci - This is a 3 Star Hotel found on the borders of Florence. The hotel is built into a palace and has an in house bar

Hotel Kraft - Found in a quieter area of Florence this wonderful 4 Star hotel boasts a Restaraunt, bar and swimming pool

Hotel Arizona S.A.S - This 3 Star beautiful 19th Century Hotel has been completley renovated and is set in the heart of town and a short walk to dining, shopping and attractions

Hotel Davanzati - As a 3 star hotel, they do more than necessary to make your stay in Florence exceptional. Run by a father and son, Hotel Davanzati offers a personalized experience. Either the son or father is always at the front desk, and more than willing to make reservations at restaurants, get tickets for museums, or organize cab rides for their guests. Another thing making the hotel unique is a happy hour between 6-7 p.m., offering free wine and champagne along with snacks such as bruschetta for hotel guests.

PERSONAL STORIES