Firenze, the birthplace of the Renaissance, is one of the most breathtaking cities in all of Italy. This city of history, art and culture draws in over 1.7 million visitors a year to stroll through its winding streets, Gothic churches and art museums. Along the peaceful Arno River, Florence draws you into another era, drowning out the chatter of other tourists. Come see a city of art.
History
Florence was founded in 59 BCE as a retirement spot for former Roman soldiers who had served under Julius Caesar. Florence, located on the peaceful Arno River, was a rich, plentiful, albeit stifling in the summer, fertile river valley perfect for farming. The city, Florentia, was a city of grids, the main streets intersecting underneath the present Piazza della Repubblica. From the 4th to the 6th centuries, the city passed from Roman to Byzantine to Ostrogoth to Lombard rule to Charlemagne in the 8th century.
From the 12th century, Florence was a Republic, governed by an autonomous commune, dominated by major families. Florence, during the Middle Ages, became one of Europe’s most powerful and prosperous cities, assisted by her strong gold currency, the florin. Florence was a city of bankers.
Florence’s famous Duomo.
After the 1300s, Florence was dominated by the Medici family. Although the city was still technically a democracy of sorts, the Medici controlled the city behind the scenes, and sometimes a bit more overtly than that. The Medici were great patrons of the arts. Lorenzo Medici was the most prolific, commissioning works by Michelangelo, DaVinci and Botticelli.
Art and Florence go hand in hand. Due to the extreme wealth that the banking industry brought into the city, there was plenty of money to be spent on all things pretty from the 14th to the 16th centuries. Florence was the birthplace of the Renaissance; the birthplace of the greats, Michelangelo, Leonardo DaVinci and the dark genius himself, Dante.
In 1737, the Medici line died out and the Austrians moved in. In 1861, Tuscany, along with Florence, joined the rest of Italy, finally becoming one country again, not seen since the days of the Roman Empire.
In 1865, Florence replaced Turin as Italy’s capital, a short 6-year tenure. In an effort to modernize the city, many medieval houses were pulled down and a more formal street plan was laid out. The Piazza della Repubblica, with its grand triumphal arch, was this era’s showcase. This modernization was very unpopular (for obvious reasons, ruining the charm in all) and was actually stopped by some expat British and Americans living in the city.
The 20th century brought tourism and war to Florence. The Germans occupied the city for a year (1943-1944). While retreating, they destroyed all the historic bridges, except the Ponte Vecchio, for it was deemed too beautiful by Hitler. Unfortunately, many of the buildings along the Arno River were also destroyed.
Florence’s famous bridge, the Ponte Vecchio (Old Bridge).
Today, Florence brings in over 1.5 million visitors each year. They come to experience the city’s culture, art and architecture. They come to explore the winding streets, the cavernous churches, the countless museums and the Boboli Gardens. They come to lose themselves in breathtaking art and endless history.
Tips
Best time to visit Florence is during the off-season (November-April). Very few lines for attractions. January is the best. It does not get that cold in the winter (average is above freezing at night).
If visiting in the summer months (May-September) be prepared for lines for the main attractions (Uffizi, Accademia, Palazzo Pitti, etc).
Uffizi requires a timed entry, even in winter months (for some reason). Also, pre-booking your Duomo dome climb is a good idea, especially in the busier months or during holiday breaks.
The Duomo is free for the main church. However, if you want to climb the dome (super awesome) or the bell tower, see the museums or baptistery (a must-see), there is a ticket that combines all of that and can be used for several days. Not all churches charge in Florence.
Be aware Florence is very hot in the summer, starting in May continuing until September. Florence is essentially in a bowl surrounded by mountains. It is a humid mess in the summer.
Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen. Need I say more.
Some churches in Florence charge a small admission. This is for the upkeep of the building. The churches are worth the admission. Trust me, I’ve been there. I’ve seen the pre and post renovation work the admissions pay for. It’s amazing what they are accomplishing.
Some attractions may offer discounts for European Union citizens or students. See posted signs for information.
Looking for cheap souvenirs and clothing? There is an outdoor market next to San Lorenzo that sells inexpensive leather and cashmere goods.
Watch out for pickpockets in high traffic areas. Keep your wallets in front and avoid using backpacks with expensive items in them. Try a satchel or messenger bag made of heavy canvas material, which is harder to get into. Zip those zippers!
Top Attractions
This is a map of the attractions I have seen and recommend for history and architecture buffs touring Florence!
