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 Contemporary art collection |
Piazza della Signoria, 5 Florence 50122 Italy |
Over the course of his life the engineer Alberto della Ragione collected a series of works of contemporary art which were donated to the Florence council in 1970. The engineer was not only passionate about art but came into direct contact with the artists of the period, supporting them in their most difficult moments. He helped to organize exhibitions to help them gain recognition, and acquired many works himself. His collection gathers together works from the period 1930-45 ,the generation of artists who participated in the renewal of Italian culture between the two wars. There are the landscapes and the still-lifes of De Pisis and Mafai, the group of canvasses by Risai and the works of Gottuso, Morandi, Carra' and Casorati, passing through cubism, abstract and futurist art. Furthermore there are several sculptures, one of The horses of Marino Marini and the famous Paulette of Lucio Fontana. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 The Badia belltower |
Via del Proconsolo, 3 Florence 50122 Italy |
The Badia belltower is one of the main reference points in the panorama of the city. Under restoration for some time now, the Badia is part of the monastery which was the home of the Benedettini. It was founded in 978 by the mother of a famous Florentine figure, Ugo of Tuscany. The Pandolfini chapel, which is in front of the 15th Century atrium, was restructured on the remains of the previous smaller church of San Stefano. There are lectures of Dante given here in memory of the first public reading by Giovanni Boccaccio of Dante's Divine Comedy which happened in 1373. Inside the Badia, there are two works in particular which should be noted: the marble tomb of the Marquis Ugo of Tuscany (which was made by Mino of Fiesole), and the Apparition of the Madonna to St. Bernard by Filippino Lippi. Admission: Free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Fabio Venni  |
 Photo: Luis Manuel Guaida Escontría |
 Photo: Irene Ferrando |
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Antiquarian treasure trove. |
Piazza de' Mozzi, 1 Florence 50125 Italy +39 55 234 2427 |
The building was constructed by an antiques dealer, Stefano Bardini, at the end of the 19th century and was left to the city council in 1922, together with his wide ranging collection. (sculptures, paintings, furniture, ceramics, tapestries, weapons, carpets, musical instruments, sarcophagi, tombstones, and funeral monuments.) The construction is unique in its use of doors, windows, and arches from churches or ruined villas and with Venetian and Tuscan wooden ceilings. As well as the Roman sarcophagi and column-heads there are sculptures by Della Robbia and works of art attributed to Donatello. One crypt-like room has a collection of tomb stones and funeral monuments in it. The collection of ancient musical instruments is also of note. Closed at present for works.Admission: EUR 6 and includes entry to the Museo delle Porcellane, Giardino di Boboli, Museo degli Argenti and the Galleria del Costume. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Marius Kleiner |
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Paintings and sculpture |
Via del Proconsolo, 4 Florence 50122 Italy +39 55 238 8606 |
The building which contains the Bargello dates back to 1255. In the 16th century it became the residence of the Bargello (head of police) and doubled as a prison. Then halfway through the 19th century it was given to the National museum. A visit begins with the splendid courtyard and the ground floor room where some of Michelangelo's masterpieces are exhibited, including the bust of Brutus and the David-Apollo statue. There are several of the early works of Donatello on the first floor, amongst them statues of David in marble and of St George and David in bronze. Also here are terracottas, glazed by Luca della Robbia, of the Virgin Mary with Child. The museum bought some minor decorative art including ivories from the Roman and the Byzantine periods, medieval enamels, German and French goldsmith's art and Renaissance jewelery. It also has an important collection of small bronzes and weapons. Admission: EUR 4. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: julia jackson |
 Photo: julia jackson |
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 Photo: Nicole McCann |
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 Photo: Josh Glessner |
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 A haven south of the Arno |
Piazza de` Pitti Florence Italy |
To escape the crowds and late summer heat on the Florentine tourist trail, head south of the river Arno to the calming and charming environs of the Boboli Gardens. This wonderful retreat was laid out by the Medici after they bought the Palazzo Pitti in 1549 and they were opened to the public in 1766. As well as formal gardens there are wilder groves of cypress and ilex and many fine statues. At the summit of the Forte di Belvedere there is an open area where you can sun yourself and relax whilst enjoying the stunning views of the city and Tuscan countryside. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Eugenia and Julian |
 Photo: John Keogh, jv21.com |
 Photo: Robin Taylor |
 Photo: Joe Yeager |
 Photo: Valentina Powers |
 Photo: Kerry Moorhouse |
 Photo: Christina Holland |
 Photo: John Keogh, jv21.com |
 Photo: Kerry Moorhouse |
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 Photo: Pedro Couto e Santos |
 Photo: Jo Copsey |
 Photo: The Olsens |
 Photo: Marg. Voulgaropoulou |
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The Last Supper by Franciabigio |
Piazza della Calza, 6 Florence 50125 Italy |
The Calza convent, located near the Porta Romana, has been inhabited by Ingesuati Brothers since its foundation, whose habits were once compared to stockings, calze in Italian, because of their length. Some of the convent can be visited, including the ancient refectory, with a fresco painted by Franciabigio in 1514, depicting the Last Supper. Visits by reservation only. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Path Along the River |
Piazzale degli Uffizi Florence 50122 Italy +39 055 238 8651 http://www.polomuseale.firenze... |
When Cosimo de'Medici, Grand Duke of Florence, addressed his commute to work in Palazzo della Signoria (Palazzo Vecchio) from his home one mile away in the Palazzo Pitti, he worried about the dangerous, dark trek he had to endure. Because the Medici already had assassination attempts, his architect, Giorgio Vasari, designed the elevated skyway so he could travel back and forth without being seen. The corridor became known as the Vasari Corridor and is now a gallery of self-portraits from Renaissance era to present day. Access is only available for groups of 15 or more and booking is a must. Admission: EUR 28.50. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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House built to commemorate the poet |
Via Santa Margherita, 1 Florence 50122 Italy +39 55 21 9416 |
This is actually not Dante's house - it was built in 1910 to commemorate the poet who did live in this area. The house holds a museum of Dante relics (including various editions of the Divine Comedy), and some of the rooms are used for temporary exhibitions. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Christopher McVey |
 Photo: Graceanne Bello |
 Photo: Julie Goloski |
 Photo: Jon & Sarah Rinella |
 Photo: lisaschnack |
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In the old garden of Palazzo Torrigiani |
Lungarno Torrigiani, 11 Florence 50125 Italy |
This church, the only Lutheran one in Florence, was built in 1901 in the garden which once belonged to the Torrigiani family. The Palazzo Torrigiani, to which the garden is annexed, was built in the sixteenth century by Baccio d'Agnolo. It is not only the building that has been changed as the garden has been made public, allowing the church to be built. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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City centre tourist information office |
Borgo Santa Croce, 29r Florence Italy +39 55 234 0444 |
This is one of two tourist information offices located near the Piazza Santa Croce. Here you will find notices with addresses of hotels, opening hours of various museums, information on historic monuments, transport timetables (trains, planes and so on), as well as leaflets which show the opening hours of private institutions which can be visited. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Sculpture Collection |
Piazza Santo Spirito 29 Florence 50125 Italy +39 55 287043 http://www.comune.firenze.it/s... |
This small but interesting museum is housed in the ancient refectory of the Augustinian Church of Santo Spirito. Decorated with frescoes by Andrea Orcagna depicting the Last Supper and the Crucifixion, the museum takes its name after Salvatore Romano, a collector and antique dealer who donated his sculptures to Florence's City Council. Featuring works of Tino da Camaino, Donatello, Jacopo della Quercia and others, the collection includes antique furnishings, detached frescoes, architectural reliefs and sculptures dating from Romanesque to Renaissance ages. -Maria Frullini Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Also known as Forte San Giorgio |
Costa San Giorgio Florence 50125 Italy +39 55 234 2425 |
Commissioned by grand duke Ferdinando I, this unusual fort (also known as Forte San Giorgio) was built by Buontalenti and Don Giovanni de' Medici at the end of the 16th century to defend the city from enemy attack. It could be reached - and still can be today thanks to restoration work carried out during the 1950's - from the east side of the Boboli gardens. The pathway around the perimeter of the fort gives visitors breathtaking views of Florence's skyline as well as the Tuscan hills beyond and overlooks nearby Palazzina del Belvedere. Built by Bartolomeo Ammannati a few decades before the fortifications, the Palazzina is a popular art exhibition venue. The fort holds temporary exhibitions on a regular basis (for which it charges an admission fee), while access to the lawns surrounding it is usually free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Rachel Mascetta |
 Photo: Zoe Briault |
 Photo: Christopher Holland |
 Photo: Rachel Mascetta |
 Photo: C. Leconte |
 Photo: barbarahsnyder |
 Photo: E Hoogesteger |
 Photo: Eivind Fjeld |
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The former grain market, now a multi-ethnic market |
Via dei Neri Florence 50123 Italy |
Today the Loddia del Grano is the place where you will find stalls with art and craft products from countries such as Senegal, Mali and India. It was originally planned by the architect Parigi in 1619 under the auspices of Grand Duke Cosimo II as a market for grain and various other cereals. The stores were above the vaulted roof and the market below it. Today the Loggia is a building which still has the front of a cinema long since closed. Before it became a cinema the building was a theatre ordered by Tommaso Salvini, an actor who lived during the second half of the 19th Century. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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History of science collection |
Piazza dei Giudici, 1 Florence 50112 Italy +39 55 239 8876 |
The heart of the collection centers on the natural, physical and mathematical sciences which so interested the Medici and Lorena Grand Dukes. It was thanks to Abbot Felice Fontana that the existing Museum of Physical and Natural sciences at the Palazzo Pitti was strengthened. One part of the museum is dedicated solely to the Medici collections, this includes the quadrants, astrolabes, sun dials, compasses and calipers and all the works of art which were created by the great craftsmen of Tuscany and Europe. One of the other wings is dedicated to mechanical, electrostatic and pneumatic instruments which were prevalent in the Lorena period. Admission: EUR 7.50 (adults), EUR 4 (youth, 7-18 years). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Markle1 |
 Photo: Jonathan Frazier |
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Church in lively Florentine square |
Piazza Santo Spirito Florence 50125 Italy +39 55 21 0030 |
The church can be found in one of the most lively piazzas in the Oltrarno. The scrolled plaster facade is from the 18th Century, but is only the last phase of the building. The building was started in 1444 by one of the greatest creators of the Renaissance in Florence: Filippo Brunelleschi. Brunelleschi's geometric measurements are visible in the line of perspective that exists in the church's foundation, with its three naves which run down into the transept. The internal perimeter wall is punctuated with apses in which there are aristocratic family chapels which are decorated with architectural motifs, altar pieces or paintings from different periods. Out of the many works, the ones which stand out are the decoration of the Corbinelli Chapel by Andrea Sansovino (1492) in the left transept and in the right transept there is the Altar piece of the Madonna on the Throne with Saints (1493-94) by Filippino Lippi. On the altar there is the wooden crucifix which is attributed to Michelangelo. Admission: Free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Antonio Acuña |
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Personal collection |
Via de' Benci, 6 Florence 50122 Italy +39 55 24 4661 |
This museum contains works of art by Herbert P. Horne (1864-1916) which he left to the Italian state together with the 15th century palazzo where he had collected them. The museum has kept the same order and style as the collector and it includes works of art, furniture and furnishings that give the house a lived-in quality. It is interesting to see the series of domestic objects: pocket mirrors, firedogs for the fireplace and other objects characterize the tastes of Horne and his search for refinement. There are also several 15th and 16th century paintings and a group of works from Florentine and Sienese artists. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Neil Hawke |
 Photo: Neil Hawke |
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A hidden corner of the city |
Viale Ariosto, 16 Florence Italy +39 55 234 6654 |
This cemetery is located in a hidden corner of the city, just outside the San Frediano door. Built in 1777, it was in use up until 1870, when a new Jewish cemetery was built in Via Caciolle in the Rifredi quarter. Amongst the tombs there are three monumental chapels: two of these have a pyramid formation while the third seems to have been designed by the architect Treves, who also participated in the construction of the synagogue in Florence. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tommaso Baldovino |
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Scientific and natural history collection |
Via Romana, 17 Florence 50125 Italy +39 55 228 8251 |
The museum's oldest core collection, like all of the Florentine museums, comes from the Medici collections. The Medici collected many natural treasures like fossils, animals, minerals and exotic plants. It was Pietro Leopoldo of Lorena who acquired the buildings and who created the Natural History Museum complete with its own library. At present the museum is more of a research institute, exhibiting to the public only a small part of the collection with examples of taxidermy and the prestigious collection of anatomical wax works. The most important parts of this collection come from an exponent of Florentine wax working, Clemente Susini (1754-1814). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jane Irwin |
 Photo: Jane Irwin |
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The lodge of Duke Alessandro de'Medici |
Piazza della Signoria Florence 50122 Italy |
Also called the Loggia della Signoria, the Loggia was named the Loggia dei Lanzi when the Duke Alessandro de' Medici made it the camp of the Lanzichenecchi after the fall of the Florentine Republic. It was the Signoria which commissioned a great Loggia for public use in 1350. The job was started by Orcagna, but continued and finished by Benci di Cione and Francesco Talenti only in 1382. Made in Serena stone with acute pointed arches and bricks decorated by sculptures designed by Agnolo Gaddi, this taste for a clasical style is what characterises Florentine art of the time. Benvenuto Cellini's famous Perseus was installed under the Loggia, and in the central arch Giambologna's marble Rape of the Sabine Women, which can be found next to Hercules with Nessus also in marble. The other statues at the back near to the walls came from the Medici villa in Rome. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Randy Holder |
 Photo: Trent Strohm |
 Photo: Samir Mirza |
 Photo: Robert Emery Smith |
 Photo: Paul Stevenson |
 Photo: Vyacheslav Stepanyuchenko |
 Photo: Mark Fogle |
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 Photo: Yuen-Ping aka YP |
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The Vasarian Loggia |
Piazza dei Ciompi Florence 50122 Italy |
In times gone by, this lively Piazzetta was the stage for dramatic events in the history of the city; one example is when the workers, excluded from the Arti, revolted in 1378. Today, a flea market is held here. The Loggia, near via Pietrapiana, is decorated with multi-colored terracotta and was built by Giorgio Vasari. It was originally erected in 1567 in the present Piazza della Repubblica, where the old market was once held. It was dismantled in the 19th century to make way for construction work in the Piazza. It was then that Vasari's Loggia was moved to the Piazza dei Ciompi. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Artworks & Orchestras |
Piazza di Santo Stefano Florence 50122 Italy +39 055 223 205 |
Owing the latter part of its name to its proximity to the Ponte Vecchio, Chiesa di Santo Stefano al Ponte was first mentioned in recorded history in 1116 although its Romanesque architecture suggest it is actually much older. A mixture of features such as its Roman façade, Medieval entryway, and altars that date to Renaissance times make visible its long and varied history. Now deconsecrated, the church is home to the Orchestra Regionale Toscana and offers a stunningly authentic acoustic and cultural setting to experience some of Italy's best classical music. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Housing the Porcellino market |
Via Porta Rossa Florence 50122 Italy |
Underneath the Loggia del Porcellino, the marble wheel can be found which commemorates the place where the carroccio was left, an emblem of the Florentine Republic. In medieval times it was used as a pillory for those who dared to dupe the merchants of the city. The Loggia was the work of Giovan Battista del Tasso who built it in the middle of the 16th century as a market place for the sale of fabrics and objects of different kinds. Today the Loggia also houses a market, mainly for tourists. Leather bags, silk scarves, straw hats and other art and craft objects can be found there. The Porcellino is the boar which is part of the fountain on one side of the market. This bronze sculpture was made by Pietro Tacca at the beginning of the 17th century after a marble original of the Hellenistic period (on show at the Uffizi). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
 16th-century palazzo |
Piazza Santa Trinita, 1 Florence 50125 Italy |
This 16th-century palazzo was one of the first examples of "Roman style" architecture which was brought to Florence by Baccio d'Agnolo. While the prevalent Florentine style of the time involved façades with rustication and plasterwork, between 1520 and 1523 Baccio d'Agnolo brought in an architectonic style using triangular tympana and columns typical of Roman classicism. This was not warmly received in Florence and in response to this the architect put an inscription in Latin on the façade. His family motto, used by the poet d'Annunzio, can instead be found above the entrance to via Porta Rossa: "per non dormire" (lest we sleep). The pictoral contrasts required by the stone facade have been revealed by recent restoration. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Melissa Demos |
 Photo: Tommaso Baldovino |
 Photo: paion |
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Typical Florentine house |
Via Porta Rossa, 13 Florence 50123 Italy +39 055 238 8610 http://www.sbas.firenze.it/ |
The museum is found in a narrow and characteristic side-street which connects Piazza Santa Trinità with Via dei Calzaiuoli. The building is one of the most beautiful and best conserved of the 14th century. It was built halfway though the 14th Century by the Davizzi family and was passed over to the Davanzati at the beginning of the 16th Century where it remained until 1838. It then was divided up and it was only at the beginning of the 20th Century that it was bought and restored to the style of the old Florentine building. This was due to the efforts of the new owners, the antiquarian Elia Volpi and Leopoldo Bengujat. The interior has three floors and all the areas of the building have the original fired brick flooring and wooden ceilings. Some of the painting is original and the walls have been frescoed to the taste of the typical 14th Century Florentine house. The furniture and furnishings are from the 14th to the 19th Centuries. The Nuptial room has 14th Century frescoes and contains two shrines and a chest filled with linen from the period. They have tried to reconstruct the work which the women did around the house. In the kitchen there is not only the household equipment of their daily life, but also the work tools, for example, the loom and the spinning wheel. The area under the building is used for antiques exhibitions and has been the site of archaeological finds. The museum is temporarily closed for renovation, but it is possible for groups to access the second floor upon request. Admission: Free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Abuja |
 Photo: Andrea Hankinson |
 Photo: Andrea Hankinson |
 Photo: Monika Rogalska |
 Photo: Giorgia Meschini |
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Aristocratic Florentine residence |
Piazza San Firenze, 3 Florence 50122 Italy |
This palazzo is modeled on the most successful 15th-century palazzi. It was built in 1490 by Giuliano da Sangallo and remains today one of the most important examples of its period. Giuliano did not succeed in finishing the project and Giuseppe Poggi finished it in 1874 by developing the structure towards the Palazzo Vecchio, adding an opening and constructing the lateral prospect. The story goes that Leonardo da Vinci was working on the Mona Lisa while he was living in one of the dilapidated houses in Via de'Gondi. As well as taking decorative elements from typical local architecture, such as the rusticated facade and the stone street bench, Sangallo innovated with the halo of rustication around the windows. The palazzo still belongs to the same family today and on the ground floor there is also a flower shop. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tom Wilkinson |
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Grand Congiura palazzo |
Via del Proconsolo, 10 Florence 50122 Italy |
The grandness of this Palazzo reminds one of the important position held by the Congiura family in Renaissance Florence. The family tried to seize economic and political power from the Medicis, as others did before them. This palazzo was where the conspiracy against the Medici's was hatched and planned in 1478. Giuliani de' Medici was killed, although Lorenzo il Magnifico managed to escape by hiding away. The Pazzi conspiracy led to the palazzo being renamed the Palazzo della Congiura, or "The Palace of Conspiracy". The architect, Giuliano da Maiano is thought to have finished the building, designed in the style of Brunelleschi, between 1558 and 1569. The façade was built with a rusticated lower part which contrasts with the plastered upper floor. In the corner the family crest - decorated by Giuliano with symbolic paintings of family members - is a copy of the original, which today is in the entrance courtyard. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Matteo Borgnolo |
 Photo: Alessio Siega |
 Photo: Jason M |
 Photo: Ivan Muller |
 Photo: Bethany |
 Photo: nealaway |
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Albertian Renaissance classicism |
Piazza de Rucellai, 1 Florence 50125 Italy |
This palazzo is the model described in the refined 15th-century text by Giovan Battista Alberti, De re aedificatoria. It was built in the Piazza of the same name where a Loggia with three wide arcades was built for Giovanni di Paolo Rucellai, the same person for whom Alberti built the façade of Santa Maria Novella. The architectural model demands a Renaissance reading. There are three classical orders on three levels, and there are symbols and family crests which commemorate the Rucellai family, such as diamonds, feathers and sails, which can also be found in Santa Maria Novella. Construction began in 1455 while the Loggia was erected between 1463 and 1466. Until a few years ago it was the site of the Archivio Alinari and on the first floor there was the Alinari Museum of Photography, which was transferred to Piazza Alinari. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: J. C. Cuesta |
 Photo: Ann Silver |
 Photo: Keye Ratley |
 Photo: bronnygee |
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Filippo Strozzi's palace |
Piazza Strozzi, 1 Florence 50122 Italy |
This Palazzo was commissioned by Filippo Strozzi and the job was undertaken by Benedetto da Maiano, who began work in 1489. He enlisted the help of Simone del Pollaiuolo (most commonly known as Il Cronaca), who made the splendid jutting cornice in 1502, and who finished the large internal courtyard with porticoes on all sides. Even though it was inhabited from 1504 the building was never fully completed, leaving the cornice and the southern façade unfinished. The rustication is present on three sides of the façade, which features many iron embellishments, including torch holders, hooks for horses or standard bearers. Some of these were substituted in the 19th century with exact copies of the designs by Benedetto da Maiano. Today the Palazzo is a famous site for temporary exhibitions which take place in the first-floor rooms, while in other rooms accessible from the courtyard are based certain cultural organizations such as the Gabinetto Vieusseux, and the Instituto Nazionale di Studi sul Rinascimento. Admission to Special Exhibits: EUR 10. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Paolo Pan |
 Photo: Nick Wright |
 Photo: Renee R West |
 Photo: Renee R West |
 Photo: paula moya |
 Photo: Stephanie et Bruno |
 Photo: Ramon Rosati |
 Photo: Chiara Barbucci |
 Photo: Anthony White |
 Photo: boisderose |
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 Photo: Christine Haley |
 Photo: Nicola Barbato |
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Historical building |
Piazza della Signoria Florence 50122 Italy +39 55 276 8224 |
The Palazzo's construction began in 1299 and it was enlarged repeatedly - in 1343, 1495 and lastly in the 16th century by Giorgio Vasari and Buontalenti. It has been the symbol and the political centre of the city for centuries. The Great room of the Cinquecento stands out: it was designed as a reception area and decorated with frescoes celebrating Florentine victories against the other Tuscan cities and with sculptures depicting the deeds of Hercules by De Rossi. On the upper floors the Quarters of the elements are noteworthy as are those of Eleonora of Toledo who was the wife of Cosimo I and to whom the little chapel by Bronzino is dedicated. The Sala dei Gigli and the Sala dell'Audienza, which has a marble entrance, are sumptuous. On the Mezzanine there is the Loeser collection of painted sculptures. It is recommended that you visit the upper balcony where you can enjoy a fabulous view of Florence. In front of the museum, you'll find a copy of Michelangelo's David. Admission: EUR 6 for adults, EUR 4.50 for young people (18-25 years old) and seniors (65 and up). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: John Clark |
 Photo: Richard White |
 Photo: Oxtay Azarmanesh |
 Photo: ritacranestudio.com |
 Photo: Felicia Folinazzo |
 Photo: Eric Ahlberg |
 Photo: Jacqueline Cullimore |
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 Photo: Kenneth DeGraff |
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 Photo: Nicola Pacini |
 Photo: Carlos Quandt |
 Photo: Ceri Lewis |
 Photo: Colby Blaisdell |
 Photo: Armen Tiraturyan |
 Photo: aboraq |
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Civic and Political Center |
Piazza della Signora Florence 50122 Italy |
Piazza della Signora has been the hub of Florence's political life since the Republic at the end of the 15th Century. This L-shaped square is surrounded by its most famous buildings. Among them, the Palazzo Vecchio, head of the Florentine government, the Galleria degli Uffizi and the Ponte Vecchio. Look around you to see reproductions of Michelangelo's David and the original fountain of Neptune by Bartolomeo Ammannati. Enjoy a full view of the Piazza from the terrace of the Loggia dei Lanzi. The place is a good starting point to begin your tour of the city. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Scott C. Webster |
 Photo: Jon and Michele |
 Photo: Tom Antos |
 Photo: kassy humphreys |
 Photo: Matt Chester |
 Photo: Anthony Powis |
 Photo: Ryan Berry |
 Photo: SwatiM |
 Photo: Peggy Chan |
 Photo: Gregg Einhorn |
 Photo: Marty Portier |
 Photo: bengal*foam |
 Photo: Steven Hutchison |
 Photo: valentina volavia |
 Photo: Andrew Black |
 Photo: Sue L. Chan |
 Photo: Rose Croix |
 Photo: Christine Pulgar |
 Photo: Xipeteon |
 Photo: Chris McGuire |
 Photo: Woodlawn School |
 Photo: Kenneth Lu |
 Photo: Ray Sorin |
 Photo: meghan collins |
 Photo: gingi0 |
 Photo: Susanna Venisti |
 Photo: Mark Barlow |
 Photo: Laura Garlando |
 Photo: Gemma Zapata |
 Photo: Mateusz 'Matt' Fogel |
 Photo: Bernardo Ribeiro |
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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 |
 Photo: Lorenzo Lazzeri |
 Photo: J. C. Cuesta |
 Photo: Elisabeth Rinaldi |
 Photo: Elisabeth Rinaldi |
 Photo: Raphael Borja |
 Photo: Molly Pierson |
 Photo: Babet. |
 Photo: Ben Kattenburg |
 Photo: Giorgio Castellini |
 Photo: christine bovig |
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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 |
 Photo: areadeandavid |
 Photo: Stefano Corso |
 Photo: RipCurlGal |
 Photo: Erika Eill |
 Photo: Jair Ribbeiro |
 Photo: Kelly Nicoll |
 Photo: Rich Green |
 Photo: Jon Thomason |
 Photo: Jair Ribbeiro |
 Photo: Scott Templeton |
 Photo: Ricardo Rmx |
 Photo: Juha Heikkila |
 Photo: Mani Varadarajan |
 Photo: Helge Olav Ramstad |
 Photo: Tim |
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 Photo: Matthew Orr |
 Photo: Pat Lindt |
 Photo: Rossano Russo |
 Photo: Iain D. Cunningham |
 Photo: Sheri Bonaglia |
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 Photo: Alessio Capaccioli |
 Photo: Mikro. |
 Photo: Carlos Muñoz |
 Photo: Filippo Seminara |
 Photo: Cristiano Del Riccio |
 Photo: :::Veronika::: |
 Photo: Pode |
 Photo: Stacy J |
 Photo: Daniele Granata |
 Photo: Sanne Houben |
 Photo: Daniele Davoli |
 Photo: diegoperez |
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Remnant of Florence's city walls |
Piazzale di Porta Romana Florence 50123 Italy |
Forming part of Florence's old 14th-century fortifications, of which there are still solid traces, the two walls spread out from the gate towards Piazza Tasso to the east and to the north-west along the Viali dei Colli. As with the Porta San Frediano, the two great, wooden bolted doors have been conserved. On the square opposite, towards the Poggio Imperiale, a statue by an important contemporary artist, Michelangelo Pistoletto, has been erected. Cast in marble and entitled "Dietrofronte", the statue depicts a woman whose imaginary movement southwards to leave the city is hindered by a heavy bundle on her head which points in the opposite direction towards the city center. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Paul Villafuerte |
 Photo: Kevin J. Mowatt |
 Photo: Stephen Tatton |
 Photo: Stella Soffía |
 Photo: radredanna |
 Photo: Carneirinho |
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The tombs of famous Florentines |
Salita del Monte alle Croci Florence 50125 Italy |
This monumental cemetery was created in the second half of the 19th century, according to the taste of the time for revival architecture that employed neo-Gothic and neo-Renaissance overtones. These styles have been used on the tombs of important Florentine citizens, even in recent times. Amongst the citizens buried here are Giovanni Spadolini, Carlo Lorenzini, Giovanni Papini and the stylist Enrico Coveri. The cemetery, which was designed by Mariano Falcini, extends all along the side of the Basilica of San Miniato, inside the building created for the Grand Duke in the 16th century. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Romanesque Basilica |
Borgo SS. Apostoli, 3 Florence 50123 Italy +39 55 29 0642 |
The architectural history of this church began in the Romanesque period in the 11th Century. The foundation of the Basilica is maintained on the inside, where the space is arranged into three naves divided by green marble columns from Prato, typical of decorative Florentine architecture, and bare columns which come from the ancient Roman baths of the first century. In the side chapels (15th-16th Century) the late baroque decorations are still visible, while at the far end of the left nave there is the Sepulchral Monument of Oddo Altoviti which was made at the beginning of the 16th Century by Benedetto da Rovezzano. Admission: Free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Nicole McCann |
 Photo: jessiespress |
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Shoe museum |
Piazza S. Trinità, 5r Florence 50123 Italy +39 55 336 0456 |
Salvatore Ferragamo, born in a small town near Naples and immigrated to the United States, could not possibly foresee his fortune in the shoe industry. From a small shop in Santa Barbara, California, he started to repair and then create his own shoes for the most famous stars in Hollywood. When he returned to the country of his birth, this time to Florence, he opened his first store in 1927, exporting his unique Italian to the rest of the world. Some of his famous clients were Audrey Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe, Rodolfo Valentino and Greta Garbo. The museum can be found in the beautiful Spini Ferroni building. It contains thousands of shoes which are the evidence of what was produced by Ferragamo from 1927 until his death in 1960. Admission: EUR 5. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Church with works of art |
Piazza S. Felice Florence 50125 Italy +39 55 22 1706 |
It seems that the creator of this fifteenth century facade was Michelozzo but that the structure of the church dates back to the roman period. Inside, the first part of the church is divided into three naves whilst the second has been restored so that the roof trusses are visible as they would have been in the fourteeth and fifteeth centuries. At the far end, in another area designed by Michelozzo, there is the main Chapel in which a wooden crucifix painted by Giotto and his workshop (1307-08) is displayed. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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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 |
 Photo: wcities |
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Seventeenth century church by Cerruti |
Piazza di Cestello Florence 50124 Italy +39 55 21 5816 |
The cupola of the Cestello stands out in the panorama of the Oltrarno and its bare, unfinished facade is visible from the bank on the other side of the Arno river. The church was built by the architect Cerutti at the end of the 17th Century and completed with the cupola of Antonio Ferri. The church is planned in the shape of a Latin cross with a single nave upon which there are chapels decorated with stucco and frescoes from the 18th century. Admission: Free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Paul Villafuerte |
 Photo: Solveig Bang |
 Photo: Ian W. Smith |
 Photo: eric |
 Photo: Betty Carbuncle |
 Photo: g_u |
 Photo: Leslie Rodriguez |
 Photo: Matteo Terzago |
 Photo: Angela Hunt |
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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 |
 Photo: Miles Berry |
 Photo: Melissa Demos |
 Photo: katie mcgowan |
 Photo: Adam R Gimpert |
 Photo: Miles Berry |
 Photo: nancylee418 |
 Photo: Melissa Demos |
 Photo: Harold |
 Photo: José Luis Blázquez |
 Photo: Laura George |
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 Photo: susanvincentmolinaro |
 Photo: djuless |
 Photo: Celia Marsh |
 Photo: Joran Pecher |
 Photo: Lisa Muccigrosso |
 Photo: Trevor Robinson |
 Photo: tamara mambelli |
 Photo: Kendra and Jamie |
 Photo: www.pauljobson.com |
 Photo: Brittany Eastman |
 Photo: Davide Lacovara |
 Photo: alex.atallah |
 Photo: Ken Alexander |
 Photo: L. Tippett |
 Photo: Cristina Jiménez |
 Photo: Laura |
 Photo: maqia |
 Photo: Andrea Righi |
 Photo: Duncan Miller |
 Photo: Nick Whiteacre |
 Photo: Marta Ghiomelli |
 Photo: Arleen Torgersen |
 Photo: tamsen ellen |
 Photo: Ed Brodzinsky |
 Photo: Alison M. Piech |
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Heritage Building |
Via San Niccolò Florence Italy |
The building already existed in the Romanesque period and was then restructured into a Gothic style and ultimately was rearranged by Giorgio Vasari (16th Century). Following the restoration after the flood of 1966, remains of frescoes from the 15th Century were found. Other decorations and the altars inside all belong to the 17th Century. Admission: Free Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: leoplus |
 Photo: Roberto Gaddi |
 Photo: lu.foto |
 Photo: Laura Croci |
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Simple Florentine church |
Via Monte alle Croci Florence 50125 Italy |
The building appears extremely simple. It has a plaster facade which is only animated by tympan windows and by portals. The everyday construction was the work of Cronaca who renewed and enlarged the church at the end of the fifteenth century and the beginning of the sixteenth. The church was governed by the Franciscans and was limited to the space which is today known as the big chapel. The interior follows the model of other Florentine churches (eg Santa Maria Maddalena de'Pazzi). It is decorated with paintings from the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries and only a few works remain from the sixteenth century. Admission: Free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Rich Green |
 Photo: Scott MacNaughton |
 Photo: Aglaé |
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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 |
 Photo: bootsintheoven |
 Photo: Kars Alfrink |
 Photo: Robert Emery Smith |
 Photo: Kars Alfrink |
 Photo: Dan Reynolds |
 Photo: Joseph Younis |
 Photo: Martin Belam |
 Photo: Riccardo Bonuccelli |
 Photo: Dan Reynolds |
 Photo: kyle garst |
 Photo: Greg Avila |
 Photo: Donna Aceves |
 Photo: Jason Chong |
 Photo: gillpoll |
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Works of art |
Piazza Santa Croce, 16 Florence 50122 Italy +39 55 24 4619 |
The museum is located in rooms of the Convent of Santa Croce. You can see frescoes by Taddeo Gaddi and Orcagna which were rediscovered under the 16th century plaster. The most important piece is the large gilded bronze of San Lodovio di Tolosa which was made by Donatello in 1423. In the other rooms there are terracottas made by the Robbia family, the remains of the 14th century windows, and works by Bronzino, Vasari and other artists. Admission: EUR 4. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Linda Jones |
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Early Christian church |
Piazza Santa Felicita, 3 Florence 50125 Italy +39 55 21 3018 |
The foundations of one of the city's oldest churches date back to the 4th century, when Christianity was in its infancy. Named after Roman martyr St Felicita, the church gradually took shape during the Romanesque period. In the first half of the 18th century Ferdinando Ruggieri made changes to the building, one of which was the inclusion in the structure of the Vasari Corridor that connected the Palazzo Vecchio to Palazzo Pitti. During the reign of Medici successors the Lorraine family, the church was used as a court chapel. Designed by Brunelleschi for the Barbadori family, little of the original structure of the chapel (later known as the Capponi Chapel) remains due to renovation work carried out during the 18th century. It does however contain two sixteenth-century masterpieces - the Deposition and the Annunciation - by Jacopo Carrucci (also known as Pontormo) that were commissioned by Ludovico Capponi. Admission: Free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ettore Timi |
 Photo: Nikola Eftimov |
 Photo: Richard De Lancey |
 Photo: toscanafahrt |
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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 |
 Photo: nieos |
 Photo: colin houston |
 Photo: Paul Villafuerte |
 Photo: Peter Ferne |
 Photo: Jing Su |
 Photo: Josée |
 Photo: Koen Vandendriessche |
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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 |
 Photo: Fulvia Finelli |
 Photo: Daniele Bassi, Swiss |
 Photo: Dennis M. O'Malley |
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Anglo-Catholic Church |
Via Maggio 16 Florence 50125 Italy +39 055 294 764 http://www.stmarksitaly.com/ |
Built in 1881 on a palazzo thought to have once been owned by the Machiavelli family, this beautiful Anglo-Catholic church is worth checking out. Intricately carved alters, venetian hanging lamps, and the brown watermark left by the flood of 1966 are all of note. From April through November, daily eventing concerts are open to the public, and often feature groups from around the world. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Park with a neo-Gothic observatory |
Via de Serragli, 146 Florence 50124 Italy +39 55 22 5115 |
The Giardino Torrigiani extends from Viale Petrarca, with the old Arnolfi walls on each side, to Piazza Torquato Tasso. The gardens were designed in the 19th century by Luigi Cambrai-Digny but were finished by Baccani, who also designed the neo-Gothic style tower. Pio Fedi executed the group of neo-classical sculptures for Pietro Torrigiani. Please note that the garden is private and is only open on rare occasions. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: alexein74 |