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 Pinocchio and the fairy... |
Via San Gennaro Florence 51014 Italy +39 57 242 9342 http://www.pinocchio.it |
The author of Pinocchio Carlo Lorenzini (1826-90), who wrote under the nom de plume of Carlo Collodi, was from Florence. His mother was born here, and most of his formative years were spent here. Florence is therefore the site of the most famous theme park in Tuscany, which is inspired by the story of Pinocchio and in which scenes from the story have been re-created. It is a veritable paradise, but not just for children! Pinocchio's Park contains a variety of irresistible games and attractions for everyone. A monument to Pinocchio and the fairy by Emilio Greco was erected in the 1950s. At the same time, Venturini was involved in the construction of the beautiful little piazza of mosaics, through which one enters Toyland. This is an area where all the adventures of the wooden puppet have been depicted in sculpture, scenery and statues, made from various materials and interpreted by several different artists. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: lorZ  |
 Photo: Ryan Dickey |
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Cosimo I's fortified villa |
Via dei Ponti Medicei, 7 Florence 50050 Italy +39 57 15 5707 |
Villa Medicea was constructed on the orders of Cosimo I between 1565-67. It was part of a project that also involved Buontalenti, who constructed the massive staircases that rise to the top of the villa, giving it an almost fortified appearance. The history of the villa is tempestuous. Isabella de' Medici was killed here by her husband, who suspected her of infidelity. During the last World War it was used for military purposes and, since being acquired by the state, the villa has been restored and converted into a museum. It's furnished with period furniture and has been decorated with a collection of Medici portraits. From the Villa di Cerreto an added excursion can be made to Vinci, the famous hometown of Leonardo da Vinci, to whom the Museo Leonardiano has been dedicated. Review © 2007, Wcities |