Overview:
Florence, the jewel and capital of Tuscany region. It is also the birthplace of Renaissance. When you visit this city you will be surrounded by the art, architecture and history of Renaissance.
And as you step through the streets of historical Florence, you are walking in the footsteps of Dante, Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci and countless others. The museums are filled with art and sculptures you have heard about or seen on media.
As you enter the city vicinity the skyline will take your breath away. From the unforgettable dome of Duomo, to the Ponte Vecchio bridge. The city offers so much to see, experience and explore.
Here are the seven (7) sites to visit while you are in Florence Italy.
Duomo
The Cathedral dominates the skyline of Florence and its beauty is not only on the outside, but inside as well. There is so much to see within the walls of Duomo that you will need to dedicate half day to it. It is not only a must stop in Florence, it should be your first stop.
House of Dante
Florence’s DNA is made of the many artists that have lived in the city. Dante – the father of Italian literature and his Divine Comedy is an example of talent that lived within the walls of this city. And while the original house Dante was born into no longer exists, his contribution to Italy was such that a museum was built in his honor.
Accademia Gallery
When you visit Florence, you must see the amazing sculptures that were done by Michelangelo. And Statue of David located at Accademia Gallery in Florence is a must for any art enthusiast. The bonus with this gallery includes four statues that were not completed at the time of Michelangelo’s death called prisoners. But there is so much more to explore at this Gallery. So give yourself time and truly experience this museum.
The Basilica di Santa Croce
The site that St. Francis and his followers decided to camp on, outside of the city walls is now final resting place to the most famous Florentine artists. The tombs located at Basilica di Santa Croce include Michelangelo, Galileo, Machiavelli, Foscolo (Poet), Gentile (philosopher), Rossini (Composer).
Bargello Museum
The Bargello National Museum may have come from humble beginnings when it was initially used as a prison, but it all changed in 1865 when it was dedicated as a museum. It now houses most priceless sculptures created by the Italian masters. From Michelangelo to Giambologna to Lombardo, you will not be disappointed by this museum.
Uffizi Gallery
The most visited museum in Florence and all of Italy. Uffizi Gallery has had so much art within its walls that they had to begin lending out some of the art to other museums in Florence. Paintings from the great masters Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Caravaggio are amongst the many that adorn the walls.
Ponte Vecchio
The oldest bridge that connects the busy districts of Florence. Ponte Vecchio bridge along with the shops that occupy both sides of it, is the jewel of the city. Since 10th century Arno river has been crossed via this bridge and shop keepers have ensured that people crossing the bridge would notice their goods.
Final Thoughts
There you have seven places you must visit on your next trip to Florence. Of course there are more amazing places to discover in Florence, but with these sites you get a good understanding of the history, art and architecture of the city.
Tours
One way to explore the city is with a tour group, they provide skip the line passes and will provide background information on all of these sites and more!
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