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This is the city of "rebirth" and "humanism", the "Flourishing city". Florence's ideas of beauty through architecture have had a worldwide impact and the city has an impressive artistic legacy.





Botanical Gardens


6000 different kinds of plants!
Via Pier Antonio Micheli, 3
Florence 50121
Italy
The creation of the Giardino dei Semplici or Botanical Gardens (Orto Botanico), was ordered by Cosimo I de'Medici in the mid 16th century and planned by Niccolo Tribolo. It was one of the first of its kind in the world. The Gardens were planted by famous botanists, one of whom, Pier Antonio Micheli, made additions in the following century. Today the collection comprises 6,000 plants of different kinds from all over the world.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Botanical Gardens photo by Karolina Krzyzanowska
Photo: Karolina Krzyzanowska
Botanical Gardens photo by Anne Welsh
Photo: Anne Welsh
Botanical Gardens photo by Mark Lloyd Dobson
Photo: Mark Lloyd Dobson
Botanical Gardens photo by Maxime Bogaert
Photo: Maxime Bogaert
 

 
Certosa del Galluzzo


Great works by Pontormo
Via Senese, 206-208r
Florence
Italy
+39 55 204 9217
Both architecturally and artistically unique, this monastery commissioned in 1342 by Niccolò Acciaioli, viceroy of the Kingdom of Naples, was originally home to Carthusian monks. Today Cistercian monks (who have lived here since 1958) give visitors a guided tour of the complex's treasures. The tour winds its way through the monastery, taking in the Chiostrino dei Monaci e il Capitolo, a cloister featuring Albertinelli's 1506 work The Crucifixion. Other architectural works, completed in different periods, make up the Certosa complex. Free admission.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Certosa del Galluzzo photo by Kate Larsen
Photo: Kate Larsen
Certosa del Galluzzo photo by bebechan
Photo: bebechan
Certosa del Galluzzo photo by bebechan
Photo: bebechan
Certosa del Galluzzo photo by bebechan
Photo: bebechan
Certosa del Galluzzo photo by Johanna Hopfner
Photo: Johanna Hopfner
Certosa del Galluzzo photo by myosotis_65
Photo: myosotis_65
 

 
Florence American Cemetery and Memorial


War Memorial
West of Via Cassia
Florence, Florence 50144
Italy
+39 55 230 2033 (tourism office)
http://www.abmc.gov/
The Memorial is a beautiful spot amidst wooded slopes, near the Greve River and approximately 5 miles from the historic center. Green courts with white crosses, on either side of a pylon, consist of 4,398 graves of soldiers who died for their country. The names soldiers is written upon the Tablets of the Missing, which serves as a reminder of sacrifice and loyalty. A staff member is on site at all times to answer questions and assist relatives to the graves. Achievements of the American Armed Forces in this region can be viewed in the north atrium of the memorial.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Florence American Cemetery and Memorial photo by * bovodesign.com
Photo: * bovodesign.com
Florence American Cemetery and Memorial photo by cromacrom
Photo: cromacrom
Florence American Cemetery and Memorial photo by Giovanni Ortoleva
Photo: Giovanni Ortoleva
 

 
Galleria dell'Accademia


Paintings, Sculptures and Michelangelo's David
Via Ricasoli, 60
Florence 50122
Italy
+39 55 238 8609
http://www.polomuseale.firenze...
The Accademia Gallery is perhaps best-known for Michelangelo's David, removed after four centuries from Piazza Signoria, now exhibited in a specially constructed hall. Other works by Michelangelo include some of his Slave series and his sculpture of San Matteo. Also featured is an impressive collection of paintings from the 13th to 16th Centuries. Among the gallery's most important works: a Sienese school Crucifix from the 13th Century, 24 panels by Taddeo Gaddi representing scenes from the life of Christ and St Francis and Giovanni da Milano's Pietà. Admission: EUR 6.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Galleria dell'Accademia photo by VanMinnen
Photo: VanMinnen
Galleria dell'Accademia photo by Fredrik Lööf
Photo: Fredrik Lööf
Galleria dell'Accademia photo by Sylvia
Photo: Sylvia
Galleria dell'Accademia photo by Jeff and Christine
Photo: Jeff and Christine
Galleria dell'Accademia photo by shogy baby
Photo: shogy baby
Galleria dell'Accademia photo by grendel2k
Photo: grendel2k
 

 
Giardino di Boboli


Former Royal Garden
Piazza Pitti, 1
Florence 50125
Italy
+39 55 265 1838
http://www.polomuseale.firenze...
Inside this garden lies the Buontalenti grotto (1583-1593). Decorated with Mannerist-style scenes from Greek and Roman mythology, the grotto includes copies of Michelangelo's famous Slave series, the originals of which were transferred to the Galleria dell'Accademia. In the 17th Century, the garden was extended as far as the Porta Romana, adding the Vasca d'Isola (pond) at the centre with a fountain and a statue of Neptune. In the late 18th century, Zanobi del Rosso built the Kaffehaus pavilion. Admission: EUR 6 and includes entry to the Museo delle Porcellane, Galleria del Costume, Museo degli Argenti and the Museo e Galleria Mozzi Bardini.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Giardino di Boboli photo by Christian
Photo: Christian
Giardino di Boboli photo by Tony Ruscoe
Photo: Tony Ruscoe
Giardino di Boboli photo by Tony Ruscoe
Photo: Tony Ruscoe
Giardino di Boboli photo by Ricardo Aratani
Photo: Ricardo Aratani
Giardino di Boboli photo by Michael Merideth
Photo: Michael Merideth
Giardino di Boboli photo by Darren F. DeMonsi
Photo: Darren F. DeMonsi
Giardino di Boboli photo by Andrew (Haiying) Lao
Photo: Andrew (Haiying) Lao
Giardino di Boboli photo by Sjoerd van Oosten
Photo: Sjoerd van Oosten
Giardino di Boboli photo by Berlinoschka
Photo: Berlinoschka
Giardino di Boboli photo by Luca Porcu
Photo: Luca Porcu
Giardino di Boboli photo by Laura Klaassen
Photo: Laura Klaassen
Giardino di Boboli photo by Mu-Yun TSENG
Photo: Mu-Yun TSENG
Giardino di Boboli photo by dianedundee
Photo: dianedundee
Giardino di Boboli photo by Francesco D.
Photo: Francesco D.
Giardino di Boboli photo by Bex Sohn
Photo: Bex Sohn
Giardino di Boboli photo by Juan Melli
Photo: Juan Melli
Giardino di Boboli photo by Carlo Ierna
Photo: Carlo Ierna
Giardino di Boboli photo by DoronRok
Photo: DoronRok
Giardino di Boboli photo by prizucca
Photo: prizucca
Giardino di Boboli photo by jennifer wyatt
Photo: jennifer wyatt
Giardino di Boboli photo by Alessio Mariottini
Photo: Alessio Mariottini
Giardino di Boboli photo by Benjamin Gehlen
Photo: Benjamin Gehlen
Giardino di Boboli photo by Amie Simon
Photo: Amie Simon
Giardino di Boboli photo by Sofia Menconero
Photo: Sofia Menconero
Giardino di Boboli photo by Mimosa Ceratti
Photo: Mimosa Ceratti
Giardino di Boboli photo by geoal66
Photo: geoal66
Giardino di Boboli photo by Dana Buglione
Photo: Dana Buglione
Giardino di Boboli photo by Lapo Vitali
Photo: Lapo Vitali
Giardino di Boboli photo by annika.click
Photo: annika.click
Giardino di Boboli photo by Cindy Tomczyk
Photo: Cindy Tomczyk
Giardino di Boboli photo by Enrico Maioli
Photo: Enrico Maioli
Giardino di Boboli photo by Little Flower 1989
Photo: Little Flower 1989
Giardino di Boboli photo by Sofia Ådén
Photo: Sofia Ådén
 

 
Palazzo Medici Riccardi


Historical residence
Via Cavour, 1
Florence 50129
Italy
+39 55 276 0340
This building was constructed between 1444 and 1460 by Michelozzo Michelozzi on the orders of Cosimo il Vecchio. It represents the prototype of the Florentine Renaissance style, characterized by mullioned windows of every size. Halfway through the 17th century it was sold to the Marchesi Riccardi family who enlarged it, adding the gallery which has Baroque frescoes by Luca Giordano. The Riccardi family held onto the palazzo until 1814 when it became the site of the Ministry of the Interior and, from 1871, the Prefecture. Inside there is a beautifully porticoed courtyard where there are many Roman remains gathered as well as various sculptures. The Chapel which was designed by Michelozzi is also noteworthy. There you will find frescoes by Benozzo Gozzoli which show the journey of the Magi to Bethlehem (1459). Within them, there are various famous people of the period including Lorenzo the Magnificient and Galeazzo Maria Sforza. Go early - only 8 guests permitted in at once! Admission: EUR 5.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Palazzo Medici Riccardi photo by Laleanne Stanbery
Photo: Laleanne Stanbery
Palazzo Medici Riccardi photo by Riccardo Innocenti -
Photo: Riccardo Innocenti -
Palazzo Medici Riccardi photo by Robert Scarth
Photo: Robert Scarth
Palazzo Medici Riccardi photo by Nicole McCann
Photo: Nicole McCann
Palazzo Medici Riccardi photo by Robert Scarth
Photo: Robert Scarth
Palazzo Medici Riccardi photo by vanvos
Photo: vanvos
Palazzo Medici Riccardi photo by Jim Gourley
Photo: Jim Gourley
Palazzo Medici Riccardi photo by Riccardo Innocenti -
Photo: Riccardo Innocenti -
Palazzo Medici Riccardi photo by Joanna Karanikas
Photo: Joanna Karanikas
Palazzo Medici Riccardi photo by Jeremy Knight
Photo: Jeremy Knight
Palazzo Medici Riccardi photo by Shelley Naylor
Photo: Shelley Naylor
Palazzo Medici Riccardi photo by Alastair Dunning
Photo: Alastair Dunning
Palazzo Medici Riccardi photo by Ciaran McGrath
Photo: Ciaran McGrath
Palazzo Medici Riccardi photo by UncleVinny
Photo: UncleVinny
Palazzo Medici Riccardi photo by Mark & Shannon Major
Photo: Mark & Shannon Major
Palazzo Medici Riccardi photo by Kevin S. Armstrong
Photo: Kevin S. Armstrong
Palazzo Medici Riccardi photo by Jarrett Lantz
Photo: Jarrett Lantz
Palazzo Medici Riccardi photo by FaP ;-)
Photo: FaP ;-)
Palazzo Medici Riccardi photo by Kelly Hartley
Photo: Kelly Hartley
Palazzo Medici Riccardi photo by Ricardo Fernandez Fe
Photo: Ricardo Fernandez Fe
Palazzo Medici Riccardi photo by maria adeyanova
Photo: maria adeyanova
Palazzo Medici Riccardi photo by john embow
Photo: john embow
Palazzo Medici Riccardi photo by mxj77x
Photo: mxj77x
 

 
Piazzale Michelangelo


Fantastic view over the city
Piazzale Michelangelo
Florence 50100
Italy
Renowned for its panoramic views of Florence and the Arno valley, this terrace is a popular spot with locals and tourists. Created as part of major restructuring of the city walls, Giuseppe Poggi's sumptuous terrace is typically 19th century. In 1871, Poggi designed a monument base dedicated to Michelangelo. The monument itself was to be composed of copies of Michelangelo's works, including David and the Medici chapel sculptures from San Lorenzo. When the terrace was finished, Poggi designed the hillside building, now a restaurant, as a museum for Michelangelo's works.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Piazzale Michelangelo photo by Lorenzo Lazzeri
Photo: Lorenzo Lazzeri
Piazzale Michelangelo photo by J. C. Cuesta
Photo: J. C. Cuesta
Piazzale Michelangelo photo by Elisabeth Rinaldi
Photo: Elisabeth Rinaldi
Piazzale Michelangelo photo by Elisabeth Rinaldi
Photo: Elisabeth Rinaldi
Piazzale Michelangelo photo by Raphael Borja
Photo: Raphael Borja
Piazzale Michelangelo photo by Molly Pierson
Photo: Molly Pierson
Piazzale Michelangelo photo by Babet.
Photo: Babet.
Piazzale Michelangelo photo by Ben Kattenburg
Photo: Ben Kattenburg
Piazzale Michelangelo photo by Giorgio Castellini
Photo: Giorgio Castellini
Piazzale Michelangelo photo by christine bovig
Photo: christine bovig
 

 
Ponte Vecchio


Florentine icon
Ponte Vecchio
Florence 50125
Italy
Best known of all Florence's treasures, this glorious bridge was the only one of six spared by the retreating Germans on 4 August 1944. Over the centuries flooding unfortunately took its toll; few traces of the 10th-century bridge remain. Today's bridge, built in 1345, was filled with butcher's shops which would routinely discard the carcasses into the Arno causing quite a stench. Grand Duke Fernandino I issued an edict to replace the butchers with goldsmiths to eradicate the smell and gentrify royalty's route to Palazzo Pitti, reached via the Vasari Corridor that passes over the bridge. Also, do not padlock anything to the statue of Benvenuto Cellini, often practiced by lovers who padlock a lock to the gate of the statue and toss the key into the river - otherwise face a fine of EUR 50!

Review © 2007, Wcities
Ponte Vecchio photo by areadeandavid
Photo: areadeandavid
Ponte Vecchio photo by Stefano Corso
Photo: Stefano Corso
Ponte Vecchio photo by RipCurlGal
Photo: RipCurlGal
Ponte Vecchio photo by Erika Eill
Photo: Erika Eill
Ponte Vecchio photo by Jair Ribbeiro
Photo: Jair Ribbeiro
Ponte Vecchio photo by Kelly Nicoll
Photo: Kelly Nicoll
Ponte Vecchio photo by Rich Green
Photo: Rich Green
Ponte Vecchio photo by Jon Thomason
Photo: Jon Thomason
Ponte Vecchio photo by Jair Ribbeiro
Photo: Jair Ribbeiro
Ponte Vecchio photo by Scott Templeton
Photo: Scott Templeton
Ponte Vecchio photo by Ricardo Rmx
Photo: Ricardo Rmx
Ponte Vecchio photo by Juha Heikkila
Photo: Juha Heikkila
Ponte Vecchio photo by Mani Varadarajan
Photo: Mani Varadarajan
Ponte Vecchio photo by Helge Olav Ramstad
Photo: Helge Olav Ramstad
Ponte Vecchio photo by Tim
Photo: Tim
Ponte Vecchio photo by James
Photo: James
Ponte Vecchio photo by Matthew Orr
Photo: Matthew Orr
Ponte Vecchio photo by Pat Lindt
Photo: Pat Lindt
Ponte Vecchio photo by Rossano Russo
Photo: Rossano Russo
Ponte Vecchio photo by Iain D. Cunningham
Photo: Iain D. Cunningham
Ponte Vecchio photo by Sheri Bonaglia
Photo: Sheri Bonaglia
Ponte Vecchio photo by penkoad
Photo: penkoad
Ponte Vecchio photo by Alessio Capaccioli
Photo: Alessio Capaccioli
Ponte Vecchio photo by Mikro.
Photo: Mikro.
Ponte Vecchio photo by Carlos Muñoz
Photo: Carlos Muñoz
Ponte Vecchio photo by Filippo Seminara
Photo: Filippo Seminara
Ponte Vecchio photo by Cristiano Del Riccio
Photo: Cristiano Del Riccio
Ponte Vecchio photo by :::Veronika:::
Photo: :::Veronika:::
Ponte Vecchio photo by Pode
Photo: Pode
Ponte Vecchio photo by Stacy J
Photo: Stacy J
Ponte Vecchio photo by Daniele Granata
Photo: Daniele Granata
Ponte Vecchio photo by Sanne Houben
Photo: Sanne Houben
Ponte Vecchio photo by Daniele Davoli
Photo: Daniele Davoli
Ponte Vecchio photo by diegoperez
Photo: diegoperez
 

 
SS. Annunziata


Basilica and sanctuary
Piazza SS. Annunziata
Florence 50122
Italy
+39 55 239 8034
This basilica is also a sanctuary because one of its chapels contains the picture of the Annunciation. According to legend, this appeared on the wall at the time of the Virgin Mary. The devotional chapel was decorated with precious marble columns through the wishes of Piero di Cosimo, the father of Lorenzo the Magnificent. The church is entered from the Piassa SS.Annunziata. At the entrance there is a portico which dates back to the seventeenth century. Past the portico, one enters the Chiostrino dei Voti which is frescoed by Masters of the Florentine school over two centuries: Andrea del Sarto, Franciabigio, Pontormo and Rosso Fiorentino. The "Chiostro dei Morti" (Cloister of the Dead) can also be visited on request. Admission: Free.

Review © 2007, Wcities
SS. Annunziata photo by nieos
Photo: nieos
SS. Annunziata photo by paula moya
Photo: paula moya
SS. Annunziata photo by VoronoV
Photo: VoronoV
SS. Annunziata photo by Geert JM Vanderkelen
Photo: Geert JM Vanderkelen
SS. Annunziata photo by Alexander Robinson
Photo: Alexander Robinson
SS. Annunziata photo by nieos
Photo: nieos
SS. Annunziata photo by Gombási Andrea
Photo: Gombási Andrea
SS. Annunziata photo by Fredrik Alkdal
Photo: Fredrik Alkdal
SS. Annunziata photo by Lorenzo Batacchi
Photo: Lorenzo Batacchi
SS. Annunziata photo by andrew.evdokimov
Photo: andrew.evdokimov
SS. Annunziata photo by somegoodgoing
Photo: somegoodgoing
SS. Annunziata photo by Cyril GUICHARD
Photo: Cyril GUICHARD
SS. Annunziata photo by Steve Horton
Photo: Steve Horton
SS. Annunziata photo by Mihr1
Photo: Mihr1
SS. Annunziata photo by endurance@ITA
Photo: endurance@ITA
SS. Annunziata photo by Dominik Zauber
Photo: Dominik Zauber
SS. Annunziata photo by Stefano Bacci
Photo: Stefano Bacci
 

 
San Filippo Neri


Complex of churches in Baroque style.
Piazza San Firenze
Florence 50122
Italy
The church is part of a complex known as San Firenze, on which work began in 1645 after a commission by Filippini, who recieved the old church of San Fiorenzo as a gift from pope Urban VIII. The building was in the area between Borgo de'Greci and Via dell'Anguillara. The project to actually start building from the church of San Filippo Neri which stood to the left side of the complex was conceived by Pietro da Cortona and carried out by Pier Francesco Silvani. The church with seventeenth and eighteenth century decorations and furniture and facade from 1715 (Ferdinando Ruggieri) recalling the architecture of Buontalenti, are amongst the most significant examples of florentine art of the period. The complex was finished by Zanobi del Rosso who built an oratory in the opposite side of the church with a facade which was symmetrical to that of the church, uniting the two buildings into one block in which he developed the convent with a central courtyard. The Oratory and the monastery building are difficult to visit because at present they are used as the Tribunal offices.

Review © 2007, Wcities
San Filippo Neri photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
San Lorenzo


Medici family church
Piazza San Lorenzo
Florence 50123
Italy
+39 55 21 6634
Encompassing the Biblioteca Laurenziana (the Laurentian Library - one of the most prestigious libraries in Italy) and the Cappelle Medicee, this basilica is a testimony to the political power and patronage of the Medici family. Its origins date back to 393 when St. Ambrose consecrated it in memory of the martyrdom of St. Lawrence. Adorned with fabulous artwork, including the marble Altar of the Sacrament carved by Desiderio da Settignano, the basilica features major artists of the period, including Donatello, Verrocchio, Filippo Lippi and Brunelleschi. This church contains the tombs of many members of the Medici family as well as that of one of their favorite artists, Donatello. Admission: EUR 4.

Review © 2007, Wcities
San Lorenzo photo by Maurizio Biagiotti
Photo: Maurizio Biagiotti
San Lorenzo photo by Lyric Kinard
Photo: Lyric Kinard
San Lorenzo photo by Lauro Snidaro
Photo: Lauro Snidaro
San Lorenzo photo by Mark Leicester
Photo: Mark Leicester
San Lorenzo photo by Jali Becker
Photo: Jali Becker
San Lorenzo photo by aaroscape
Photo: aaroscape
San Lorenzo photo by Jenny Giboney
Photo: Jenny Giboney
San Lorenzo photo by Jawahar Swaminathan
Photo: Jawahar Swaminathan
San Lorenzo photo by Tim Ould
Photo: Tim Ould
San Lorenzo photo by Sacha Quester-Séméon
Photo: Sacha Quester-Séméon
San Lorenzo photo by Chris L
Photo: Chris L
San Lorenzo photo by Chris L
Photo: Chris L
San Lorenzo photo by Mimi Yang
Photo: Mimi Yang
San Lorenzo photo by Linda Whang
Photo: Linda Whang
San Lorenzo photo by nielsb
Photo: nielsb
San Lorenzo photo by Tyler Palmer
Photo: Tyler Palmer
San Lorenzo photo by Tracy
Photo: Tracy
San Lorenzo photo by Greg and Annie Henderson
Photo: Greg and Annie Henderson
San Lorenzo photo by Jonathan Barsook
Photo: Jonathan Barsook
San Lorenzo photo by Alessandra D.S.
Photo: Alessandra D.S.
San Lorenzo photo by paolo facetti
Photo: paolo facetti
San Lorenzo photo by John Kinnane
Photo: John Kinnane
San Lorenzo photo by Thierry Bélanger
Photo: Thierry Bélanger
San Lorenzo photo by Casey F
Photo: Casey F
San Lorenzo photo by Marcin Kaczmarski
Photo: Marcin Kaczmarski
San Lorenzo photo by valerie rowley
Photo: valerie rowley
San Lorenzo photo by John McGuffie
Photo: John McGuffie
San Lorenzo photo by Matt Leese
Photo: Matt Leese
San Lorenzo photo by Colin Butler
Photo: Colin Butler
San Lorenzo photo by Certraline
Photo: Certraline
San Lorenzo photo by Naka
Photo: Naka
San Lorenzo photo by JP Rosa
Photo: JP Rosa
San Lorenzo photo by Rebecca Slaven
Photo: Rebecca Slaven
San Lorenzo photo by Linda Ziccardi
Photo: Linda Ziccardi
San Lorenzo photo by steph19160055
Photo: steph19160055
San Lorenzo photo by dr_jen
Photo: dr_jen
San Lorenzo photo by Spencer Millsap
Photo: Spencer Millsap
 

 
San Marco


Cosimo the Elder's monastery
Piazza San Marco, 1
Florence 50121
Italy
+39 55 238 8608
This complex was enlarged in 1437 by Michelozzo to accommodate Dominican monks who had moved to the city from nearby Fiesole. Traces of frescoes from the 14th and 15th centuries remain today, although some parts of the structure were modified during the Counter-Reformation and the facade was finally completed in the 17th century. One of the oldest pieces of artwork on display is the crucifix by an artist whose style is similar to Andrea Orcagna's, while at the far end of the church on the main altar is Fra'Angelico's "Crucifix."

Review © 2007, Wcities
San Marco photo by Eugenio Contreras
Photo: Eugenio Contreras
San Marco photo by Eugenio Contreras
Photo: Eugenio Contreras
San Marco photo by Jasiot
Photo: Jasiot
San Marco photo by Gene Ko
Photo: Gene Ko
San Marco photo by Graeme Churchard
Photo: Graeme Churchard
San Marco photo by Nalini Asha
Photo: Nalini Asha
San Marco photo by Alberto Alvarez-Pere
Photo: Alberto Alvarez-Pere
San Marco photo by susan
Photo: susan
San Marco photo by Kristy Streefkerk
Photo: Kristy Streefkerk
San Marco photo by Hattie Whiting
Photo: Hattie Whiting
San Marco photo by marta_h
Photo: marta_h
San Marco photo by Frank Futral
Photo: Frank Futral
San Marco photo by travelweezie
Photo: travelweezie
San Marco photo by LizBeth1284
Photo: LizBeth1284
San Marco photo by candyfeldt
Photo: candyfeldt
San Marco photo by Duncan Cook
Photo: Duncan Cook
San Marco photo by J Ted Bell
Photo: J Ted Bell
San Marco photo by nehawashere
Photo: nehawashere
San Marco photo by ruth miriam
Photo: ruth miriam
 

 
San Miniato al Monte


Romanesque church on the Florentine hills
Via Monte alle Croci, 34
Florence 50125
Italy
+39 55 234 2768
San Miniato is one of the most striking examples of Florentine Romanesque architecture, characterized by its bicoloured (white and green) marble façade. The altar, pulpit and transept recess feature fine marble décor, while the floor, in keeping with the Romanesque style, is decorated with symbolic ornamental motifs. Halfway along the nave on the left is another chapel, the Cappella del Cardinale Portogallo, which was designed by one of Brunelleschi's pupils, its architectural and decorative style resembles one of Brunelleschi's first creations, the Sagrestia Vecchia (Old Sacristy), which can be seen in San Lorenzo church. Admission: Free.

Review © 2007, Wcities
San Miniato al Monte photo by Miles Berry
Photo: Miles Berry
San Miniato al Monte photo by Melissa Demos
Photo: Melissa Demos
San Miniato al Monte photo by katie mcgowan
Photo: katie mcgowan
San Miniato al Monte photo by Adam R Gimpert
Photo: Adam R Gimpert
San Miniato al Monte photo by Miles Berry
Photo: Miles Berry
San Miniato al Monte photo by nancylee418
Photo: nancylee418
San Miniato al Monte photo by Melissa Demos
Photo: Melissa Demos
San Miniato al Monte photo by Harold
Photo: Harold
San Miniato al Monte photo by José Luis Blázquez
Photo: José Luis Blázquez
San Miniato al Monte photo by Laura George
Photo: Laura George
San Miniato al Monte photo by Rien1
Photo: Rien1
San Miniato al Monte photo by susanvincentmolinaro
Photo: susanvincentmolinaro
San Miniato al Monte photo by djuless
Photo: djuless
San Miniato al Monte photo by Celia Marsh
Photo: Celia Marsh
San Miniato al Monte photo by Joran Pecher
Photo: Joran Pecher
San Miniato al Monte photo by Lisa Muccigrosso
Photo: Lisa Muccigrosso
San Miniato al Monte photo by Trevor Robinson
Photo: Trevor Robinson
San Miniato al Monte photo by tamara mambelli
Photo: tamara mambelli
San Miniato al Monte photo by Kendra and Jamie
Photo: Kendra and Jamie
San Miniato al Monte photo by www.pauljobson.com
Photo: www.pauljobson.com
San Miniato al Monte photo by Brittany Eastman
Photo: Brittany Eastman
San Miniato al Monte photo by Davide Lacovara
Photo: Davide Lacovara
San Miniato al Monte photo by alex.atallah
Photo: alex.atallah
San Miniato al Monte photo by Ken Alexander
Photo: Ken Alexander
San Miniato al Monte photo by L. Tippett
Photo: L. Tippett
San Miniato al Monte photo by Cristina Jiménez
Photo: Cristina Jiménez
San Miniato al Monte photo by Laura
Photo: Laura
San Miniato al Monte photo by maqia
Photo: maqia
San Miniato al Monte photo by Andrea Righi
Photo: Andrea Righi
San Miniato al Monte photo by Duncan Miller
Photo: Duncan Miller
San Miniato al Monte photo by Nick Whiteacre
Photo: Nick Whiteacre
San Miniato al Monte photo by Marta Ghiomelli
Photo: Marta Ghiomelli
San Miniato al Monte photo by Arleen Torgersen
Photo: Arleen Torgersen
San Miniato al Monte photo by tamsen ellen
Photo: tamsen ellen
San Miniato al Monte photo by Ed Brodzinsky
Photo: Ed Brodzinsky
San Miniato al Monte photo by Alison M. Piech
Photo: Alison M. Piech
 

 
Santa Croce


Franciscan basilica
Piazza Santa Croce
Florence 50122
Italy
The construction of the Basilica of Santa Croce began in 1294. Giotto's frescoes in the chapels at the head of the transept are considered to be some of the finest examples of 14th century painting, while the 19th-century architect Niccolò Matas is responsible for the church's distinctive green and white marble façade. The church contains the tombs of the intellectual, artistic and religious figures from Italy's past, including Michelangelo, Machiavelli, Gioacchino Rossini, Galileo and Ugo Foscolo. Although exiled from Florence and buried in Ravenna, Dante, father of the Italian language, is honored with a cenotaph. Admission: EUR 5.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Santa Croce photo by bootsintheoven
Photo: bootsintheoven
Santa Croce photo by Kars Alfrink
Photo: Kars Alfrink
Santa Croce photo by Robert Emery Smith
Photo: Robert Emery Smith
Santa Croce photo by Kars Alfrink
Photo: Kars Alfrink
Santa Croce photo by Dan Reynolds
Photo: Dan Reynolds
Santa Croce photo by Joseph Younis
Photo: Joseph Younis
Santa Croce photo by Martin Belam
Photo: Martin Belam
Santa Croce photo by Riccardo Bonuccelli
Photo: Riccardo Bonuccelli
Santa Croce photo by Dan Reynolds
Photo: Dan Reynolds
Santa Croce photo by kyle garst
Photo: kyle garst
Santa Croce photo by Greg Avila
Photo: Greg Avila
Santa Croce photo by Donna Aceves
Photo: Donna Aceves
Santa Croce photo by Jason Chong
Photo: Jason Chong
Santa Croce photo by gillpoll
Photo: gillpoll
 

 
Santa Maria Novella


Italian Architecture with Gothic Strains
Piazza Santa Maria Novella
Florence 50123
Italy
This church was built in 1278 by architects (Fra Sisto and Fra Ristoro) who were part of the Dominican order, the work was carried on by Fra Jacopo Talenti and Fra Giovanni da Campi, and was constructed in a Gothic style. The church still bears evidence of the Gothic style in the lower part of the façade in its avelli (grave niches) with its pointed arches, which are clad in green and white marble these colours are to be found in the upper part of the façade elegant with its classical motifs, designed by Leon Battista Alberti in the 1470s at the request of Giovanni Rucellai (whose name is prominently displayed on the façade). The left side of the façade which leads to thecloisters of Santa Maria Novella. The most important and interesting objects of art are to be found in the chapels of the prized and famous families. The Rucellai chapel is on the right of the church, with a marble sculpture of Madonna and Child by Nino Pisano. The Cappella Bardi is the second on the right and was the resting place of the famous Maestà by Duccio, which is in the room of the Uffizi. The chapel adjacent is that of Filippo Strozzi and is decorated with stories of San Filippo by Filippino Lippi in the 1590s, and sculptures by Benedetto da Maiano. The chapel of Giovanni Tornabuoni has wonderful scenes of political and cultural life of the times with illustrious men, humanists and famous Florentines. The frescoes depict the life of the Madonna and Saint John the Baptist and were created by Domenico Ghirlandaio as well as his young apprentice Michelangelo in 1485-90. After the cappella maggiore is the Cappella Gondi with its wooden cross by Brunelleschi framed by Giuliano da Sangallo's architecture, and the Capella Gaddi encrusted with stones and marble. The Cappella Strozzi is to be found on the left side of the church and is decorated with 14th century frescoes of Heaven, Hell, and Judgment Day by Nardo di Cione, the brother of Orcagna, the author of the altar piece with Cristo risorto (Christ risen), completed in 1347. The sacristy and its furnishings can be seen on the left side of the church as you descend the steps from the Capella Strozzi, you can purchase books and religious objects from here. Finally, you can see the glorious fresco of the Trinity by Masaccio (circa 1427), can be found along the left side of the aisle, this is the fresco of the Madonna, St John and the fresco's patrons, the Lenzi family. Admission: EUR 3.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Santa Maria Novella photo by Peter Repetti
Photo: Peter Repetti
Santa Maria Novella photo by Paul Burani
Photo: Paul Burani
Santa Maria Novella photo by Paul Burani
Photo: Paul Burani
Santa Maria Novella photo by Boris Vergote
Photo: Boris Vergote
Santa Maria Novella photo by Natasha Sandmeier
Photo: Natasha Sandmeier
Santa Maria Novella photo by Melissa Demos
Photo: Melissa Demos
Santa Maria Novella photo by Wade Lagrone
Photo: Wade Lagrone
Santa Maria Novella photo by Jreese.com
Photo: Jreese.com
Santa Maria Novella photo by Bill Strouse
Photo: Bill Strouse
Santa Maria Novella photo by Rich Gibson
Photo: Rich Gibson
Santa Maria Novella photo by Francesco Coschino
Photo: Francesco Coschino
Santa Maria Novella photo by Jim Malone
Photo: Jim Malone
Santa Maria Novella photo by Luca Gambetti
Photo: Luca Gambetti
Santa Maria Novella photo by Scott Rathbone
Photo: Scott Rathbone
 

 
Santa Maria del Carmine


Renaissance church and chapel
Piazza del Carmine, 14
Florence 50124
Italy
+39 55 21 2331
This 2nd-century church is found in the Oltrarno. It was completely destroyed by a fire and rebuilt in the 18th Century by Ruggieri and then Mannaioni. The Brancacci Chapel is the most precious part remaining from the fire. It was frescoed by Masolino and Masaccio beginning in 1424 and was finished by Filippino Lippi after 1480. Inside, two particular scenes frescoed by Masaccio stand out: "The payment of tribute" and the Purge from Paradise. These constitute an example imitated throughout the renaissance, especially in the ways in which naked bodies were studied at close quarters, both in their proportions and in their volumes. The chapel has a separate entrance where a charge is applicable. Admission: EUR 4.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Santa Maria del Carmine photo by nieos
Photo: nieos
Santa Maria del Carmine photo by colin houston
Photo: colin houston
Santa Maria del Carmine photo by Paul Villafuerte
Photo: Paul Villafuerte
Santa Maria del Carmine photo by Peter Ferne
Photo: Peter Ferne
Santa Maria del Carmine photo by Jing Su
Photo: Jing Su
Santa Maria del Carmine photo by Josée
Photo: Josée
Santa Maria del Carmine photo by Koen Vandendriessche
Photo: Koen Vandendriessche
 

 
Santa Trinita


Near to the Santa Trinita bridge
Piazza Santa Trinita
Florence 50123
Italy
This building was originally erected in the middle of the 11th Century and after modifications spanning three centuries, the church finally took the form of the plans drawn up by Neri di Fioravante at the end of the 14th century. The façade however was the work of Bernardo Buontalenti. Inside, the only chapel to preserve its original 15th century decorations is the fourth in the right-hand nave. It was Lorenzo Monaco who, between 1420-1425, painted the series of frescoes telling the story of the Virgin Mary and the altar-piece with the Annunciation. The first chapel on the right, in the apse walls, was owned by the Sassetti family who commissioned Domenico Ghirlandio to paint the series of frescoes telling the stories of St Francis of Assisi which depict aspects of 15th century life with particular realism. Ghirlandaio also worked on the altar-piece with the sweet Shepherd's Worship, dated 1485. Admission: Free.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Santa Trinita photo by Fulvia Finelli
Photo: Fulvia Finelli
Santa Trinita photo by Daniele Bassi, Swiss
Photo: Daniele Bassi, Swiss
Santa Trinita photo by Dennis M. O'Malley
Photo: Dennis M. O'Malley
 

 
Villa La Pietra


Sir Harold Acton's former villa
Via Bolognese, 120
Florence 50100
Italy
This private villa can only be visited following a written request. The alley running from the entrance gate to the villa itself is lined with cypress trees and although the villa was built in the 16th century, it was completely renovated by the architects, Fontana and Ruggieri for the Capponi family in the 18th century. One of the villa's recent owners was Sir Harold Acton, an art historian who put together his own art collection here; it was subsequently bequeathed to an American university.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Villa La Pietra photo by Scott Kidder
Photo: Scott Kidder
Villa La Pietra photo by Lynn Schibeci
Photo: Lynn Schibeci
Villa La Pietra photo by Lynn Schibeci
Photo: Lynn Schibeci
 

 
Villa del Poggio Imperiale


Grand Duchess D'Asburgo's splendid villa
Piazzale del Poggio Imperiale
Florence 50125
Italy
+39 55 22 6171
This 17th-century villa stands on the Imperial Hill, so called because of its connections with the imperial D'Asburgo family through the Grand Duchess Maria Magdalena, wife of Cosimo II de' Medici and sister of the Emperor Ferdinand II. The original building designed by Parigi was altered during the 18th and 19th centuries by the designs of Paoletti, Poccianti and Cacialli, who created a neo-classical style which was particularly welcomed by the Grand Duchess. In the second half of the 19th century it was used as an educational center. Now under state control, only some ground floor rooms of the villa may be visited, namely those containing paintings by Matteo Roselli and other 17th-century Florentine painters, which depict subjects chosen by the Grand Duchess D'Asburgo. On the top floor, however, a room of Albertolli statues may also be visited. Please telephone for an appointment.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Villa del Poggio Imperiale photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Other Schmapplets in this city related to "Florence"
Florence - Historical Background
Florence - Neighborhood Guide
Florence - Where to Stay
Florence - Dining & Drinking
Florence - Art & Entertainment

Other nearby cities:
Bologna (94 miles)
Genoa (176 miles)
Verona (193 miles)
Venice (220 miles)
Milan (241 miles)
Rome (242 miles)
Nice (294 miles)
Turin (298 miles)
Cannes (312 miles)
Trieste (313 miles)

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