Florence is the embodiment of the spirit of the Renaissance, a city-architectural masterpiece and the birthplace of great creators who forever imprinted their names in the memory of mankind. Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Niccolo Donatello, Dante Alighieri, Benvenuto Cellini - all these brilliant masters lived and created their immortal masterpieces in Florence.

The city is surrounded by the magnificent landscapes of Tuscany, the best works of art are exhibited in Florentine museums, and opera singers perform in medieval squares. Florence inspires and enchants - no tourist remains indifferent to its beauty. Florence is called "the city of flowers", which has blossomed its beautiful petals among the picturesque plains and hills of Italy.

The best hotels and hotels at affordable prices.

from 500 rubles / day

What to see and where to go in Florence?

The most interesting and Beautiful places for walking. Photos and a short description.

A luxurious and graceful cathedral, a real architectural wonder that has adorned Florence for several centuries. The construction of the temple lasted for several centuries under the guidance of such famous architects as Giotto di Bondone, Francesco Talenti, Giovanni di Lappo Gini and others. The vaults of the cathedral are decorated with frescoes of the 15th century, the incredible beauty of the facade is decorated with marble bas-reliefs, the red dome of the cathedral seems to hover over the city.

Octagonal marble building of the XI-XII century, intended for baptism. Here took Christian faith representatives of the powerful Medici family and the great Dante. The building is decorated with bas-reliefs, which were worked on by Byzantine craftsmen. Most of the tourists' attention is attracted by the eastern gate of the baptistery, where scenes from the Bible are depicted on gilded panels.

The bell tower is part of the architectural complex of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. It is an outstanding example of Italian architectural art, created with the participation of the master Giotto di Bondone. His name is immortalized in the title of the campanile. The tower reaches 84 meters in height, on the upper tier there is an observation deck, from where a panoramic view of Florence opens to the eyes of a tourist. More than 400 steps lead to the site.

Basilica of the 13th century, a classic monument of the Italian Gothic. It is assumed that the architect Arnolfo di Cambio began work on the construction of the temple. According to legend, on the site of the basilica there was a chapel built by St. Francis of Assisi. The interior is decorated with works of art from the 14th-15th centuries. There are works by Giotto, Benedetto de Maiano, Donatello, Giovanni da Milano, Bernardo Rossellino. The basilica belongs to the Franciscan Order.

An architectural monument of the 15th century, built in the style of the early Renaissance. The temple houses the tombs of representatives of the Medici family. During the heyday of this influential Florentine family, the Basilica of San Lorenzo was the Parish Church of the Medici. Near the main altar is the tomb of the founder of the dynasty, Cosimo the Elder. At the basilica there is a monastery and a Laurentian library.

The main Dominican church of Florence, an architectural monument of the XIII-XIV centuries. Previously, there was a Romanesque chapel on this site, which was given to the monks of the Dominican Order. The basilica is decorated with an openwork facade, a bit reminiscent of the painting of a decorative box. The interior is decorated with Greek frescoes and marble bas-reliefs. The action of "The Decameron" by D. Boccaccio begins in the basilica.

The monastery, which in the XIV century passed to the Dominican Order from the Congregation of the Sylvestrines of St. Benedict at the behest of the ruler of Tuscany (the Benedictines did not manage well enough). It is believed that the monastery originated in the XII century. In the second half of the 19th century, the National Museum of San Marco was established in the monastery. The collections of this museum include priceless exhibits from the Renaissance artists.

The very first European Academy of Painting, founded in 1561 with the participation and full support of Duke Cosimo I of Medici. Agnolo Bronzino, Giorgio Vasari and Bartolomeo Ammanati stood at the origins of the academy. The institution has an art gallery, where outstanding works of art are exhibited. Among them is the famous "David" by Michelangelo. This five-meter statue is one of the symbols of the Renaissance.

Museum, which is located in a historical building of the XIII century. The structure is a real medieval castle... In past centuries, a prison, a barracks, a judge's residence, and a city magistrate were located here. The collection of the Bargello Museum is considered one of the most significant in all of Italy. The works of B. Cellini, Michelangelo, Giambologna and other famous masters are kept here.

Donte Alighieri is a famous poet, politician, creator of the immortal "Divine Comedy" and one of the founders of the Italian language. The old stone house of the genius in one of the oldest Florentine quarters has been turned into a museum named after him. The exposition tells about Dante's life and his creative path. The museum has many paintings depicting 14th century Florence.

The palace of the late XIII - early XIV centuries, which houses the city municipality. The rulers of the Florentine Republic and the Duchy of Tuscany have sat here for centuries. The building is crowned with a 94 meters high tower named after the master Arnolfo di Cambio. The palazzo has survived to this day in its original form. The rich interior decoration is the merit of the court architect of the Medici family, master D. Vasari.

The palace, built for the Pitti family in the 15th century in the gloomy architectural style of the Quatrocheto (one of the directions of the Early Renaissance). Currently, it houses one of the best museums in Florence. Rather, on the territory of Palazzo Pitti there are several different exhibitions: Galarea Palatina, Museum of Silver, Gallery of Costumes, Museum of Porcelain, Museum of Modernist Art.

For many centuries, the palace was the main residence of the Medici - the ruling family of Florence. The dynasty came from the banker Cosimo the Elder, who achieved such a high position thanks to his money and influence. In the middle of the 15th century, a magnificent palazzo was built for the newly-made ruler. In the 17th century, the building was sold to the Riccardi family, who worked to expand and renovate it in the Renaissance style.

Florentine square, from where the best panorama of the city opens. Because of this, it is always crowded and noisy. The square was created in the 19th century during a large-scale reconstruction of Florence. The name was given in honor of the consummate creator Michelangelo. In 1873, a copy of the sculpture "David" by Michelangelo and four more copies of the works of this famous sculptor of the Renaissance were installed on the square.

Historic center and one of the most beautiful squares in all of Italy. The square is a harmonious architectural ensemble, which includes the Palazzo Vecchio, the Fountain of Neptune, Loggia Lanzi and several sculptural groups. Even in ancient times, there was a crossroads of important roads, there was a Roman amphitheater and antique villas. But these buildings have not survived to this day.

One of the most famous art museums in the world. The cultural value of the Gallery for all of Mankind can hardly be overestimated - the masterpieces of Botticelli, Giotto, Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Caravaggio are kept here. Under Cosimo I of the Medici dynasty, the Uffizi housed administrative buildings, but over time, an impressive collection of works of art has accumulated inside. In the 18th century, it was decided to open a public museum on the territory.

A covered arched passage across the Arno River that connects Palazzo Pitti and Palazzo Vecchio. It was built at the behest of Francesco I de Medici. Through this corridor, the ruler could quickly cross the river without having to go outside. The passageway is decorated with paintings by Titian, da Vinci, Giotto and several hundred other works by masters of the 16th-17th centuries. Today, walking around Vasari is only possible for a fee.

Crossing the Arno River, which was built in the days of Ancient Rome. Over the past centuries, the bridge has been repeatedly destroyed, washed away and rebuilt. In the 15th century, a Florentine meat market worked here, which caused a foul smell to spread throughout the surrounding area. Now on Ponte Vecchio, expensive jewelry boutiques for tourists have taken the place of butcher shops. The bridge itself is part of the Vasari Corridor.

In the 16th century, the hunting grounds of the Medici family were located on the site of the park. At the beginning of the 19th century, the territory was opened to the public, and later the park was sold to the city authorities. Since then, Cascine has become a popular holiday destination for the Florentines. It is equipped with bicycle and walking paths, signposts, picnic areas and other infrastructure. Admission is free for everyone.

Landscape park complex, lavishly decorated with fountains, gazebos and flower beds. The gardens were founded in the 15th century at the request of the wife of Cosimo I Medici, Duchess Eleanor of Toledo. Over the centuries, the Boboli Gardens changed owners several times. Each noble family that acquired these territories strove to contribute to the landscape of the park complex.

Florence from A to Z: map, hotels, attractions, restaurants, entertainment. Shopping, shops. Photos, videos and reviews about Florence.

• Last Minute Tours to italy

• Where is the main train station in Florence

Search for flights to Florence

Areas of Florence

The capital of Tuscany is divided in two by the majestic Arno - a river that cannot be called the most picturesque, but there is still something special about it. On the northern bank of the Arno lies the heart of the city - the area of ​​the Historical Center. Florence is proud of this small piece of land for a reason. After all, it was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List of Humanity. And of course, in order to get at least a minimal idea of ​​the beautiful capital of the Florentine Republic, you should definitely wander through its cozy and romantic streets. The center of the district is the Duomo square, next to the creation of the great Giotto is the bell tower of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. There is also the baptistery of St. John - the patron saint of the city. There are many other architectural masterpieces in the historical center, in the creation of which Donatello, Michelangelo, Brunelleschi took part. There are also famous museum collections - San Marco, the Accademia Gallery, as well as the most expensive hotels and restaurants in Florence.

San Lorenzo is another central area of ​​the city, which for centuries has been famous for two seemingly not very compatible components - trade and art. The area owes its name to the temple, which was erected in the 4th century after the Nativity of Christ. The second name of this place is “the Medici quarter”, and all thanks to the fact that almost all representatives of this noble family rest in the temple of San Lorenzo. Finally, there is the majestic Convent of San Marco and of course the famous Central Market.

The area of ​​Santa Croce (from the Italian "Holy Cross"), which lies to the east of the center, got its name from the church of the same name, which is considered one of the main architectural gems of the city. You should definitely see the palaces of Cocchi-Serristori, Spinelli, Antella and the house of the famous painter and architect Giorgio Vasari. Perhaps this is one of the most convenient areas for tourist accommodation - it is located relatively close to the center, but at the same time, the prices in hotels are quite attractive here.

Crossing the famous Ponte Vecchio bridge (by the way, the only ferry in Florence that survived the Second World War), you can find yourself in the Oltrarno area. This is a very sophisticated and somewhat bohemian place with a dime a dozen of sights. These are excellent museums: for example, the Gallery of Modern Art, the Museum of Silver Products, the Palatina Gallery. And openwork temples, in particular, Santa Maria del Carmine with amazing frescoes by Masaccio, Filippo Lippi and Mazolino. And amazing restaurants, where dishes are prepared exclusively according to Florentine recipes.

The area of ​​Coverciano is distinguished by a huge number of churches and monasteries, each of which, of course, also has an important artistic value. Despite its remoteness from the center (in the northeast, just behind the railway line), it is worth getting out here at least for half a day. For the Church of Santa Catharina of Siena or the ancient Romanesque church of San Bartolomeo Gignoro. There are also two holy cloisters - San Baldassarre and San Girolamo.

For fans of the Fiorentina football club, popularly called "violets", Coverciano is an indispensable "must visit". After all, here are the Italian Football Hall of Fame and the headquarters of the national federation.

Transport

Florence is 10 times inferior to Rome in area, there is no need for metro and electric trains. In addition, almost all iconic places are collected in a small area, the movement along which, by the way, is limited. Take this into account if you are used to renting a car while traveling. In Florence, it is only useful for country trips. And it's easier to drive through the city streets by buses, trams, taxis, pedicabs or rented vehicles.

Municipal transport

Florence buses have hundreds of routes, which is impressive given the city's modest size.

There are 4 eco-friendly electric bus routes in the conventionally closed center of old Florence. They are distinguished by an unusual appearance and the letters in the number: C1, C2, C3 and D.

The main transport company, ATAF, has a unified system of tickets and season tickets for buses and trams. A ticket for 90 minutes costs 1.20 EUR. Tourists are offered a 24-hour pass for 5 EUR, a three-day pass for 12 EUR and a weekly ticket for 18 EUR. Travel by night bus (from 20:00 to 3:00) will cost 5 EUR. Prices on the page are for November 2018.

Look for tickets and passes in the special ATAF lounge at Santa Maria Novella train station, as well as in bars, tobacco and newsstands. Tickets are also sold by the driver, but already for 2 EUR. You can also order an SMS ticket, but you need an Italian SIM card.

Museums by bus

The Firenze Card opens the doors to 67 museums in Florence for 72 hours. Bonus - free travel on buses and trams for the validity period of the card. Pleasure price - 85 EUR per person.

Tram

Recently in Florence, the first and so far the only tram line was restored, which was closed in 1958 for being "out of date". It connected the Santa Maria Novella train station with the Scandicci commune on the outskirts. The journey to the terminal will take about 20 minutes. An interesting opportunity to get to know the surroundings quickly and for little money. The first tram leaves the line at 4:30, the last leaves for the depot at 0:30. Runs every 4-6 minutes. In 2018, a second line opened, linking Santa Maria Novella train station with the airport.

Taxi

Taxi fares are about the same. During the day they ask for 3.30 EUR for boarding, the minimum rate is 5 EUR. From 22:00 to 6:00 boarding EUR 6.60, minimum per trip EUR 8.30. On holidays 5.30 and 7 EUR respectively. For the fourth and further passenger 1 EUR more, the same amount for a piece of baggage. Calling a taxi by phone is considered an additional service, the cost is up to 2 EUR. Ready rates - 20 EUR to the city center from the airport, 10 EUR each between city stations. A kilometer of travel - from 0.10 EUR. Call a taxi or look for it in the parking lot: it is difficult to catch a car on the street.

From the airport and back

An alternative to a taxi is the VolaInBus shuttle. Look for these buses at Galeria station, BusItalia bus station and air terminal stop. One way ticket: 5 EUR, round trip: 8 EUR. Opening hours: 5:00 - 0:30.

For a day around

From Florence, you can arrange a day trip around Tuscany by visiting Siena, Pisa or the Tyrrhenian coast. The bus station is within walking distance of Santa Maria Novella. The trip to Siena by bus will take an hour, the ticket costs from 7.60 EUR. It is easier to get to Pisa and the coast by train, travel time - 1-1.5 hours, ticket from 8 EUR.

City bus number 7 will take you from Piazza San Marco to Fiesole with a rich archaeological area and excellent views of Florence.

Cycle rickshaws

For some time now, the cycle rickshaw movement has been developing in Florence. Maximum passengers - two adults or an adult and two children. A 15-minute ride will cost EUR 15 for two. One hour walk: 45 EUR. Although they can ride for free, the movement actively attracts volunteers to its ranks. Look for rickshaws near the market in the San Lorenzo area.

Excursion tours

The city's guests are familiar with the double-decker red City Sightseeing Open Bus. There are three routes in operation: year-round A and B and line C, available from April to November. Adult day ticket for A + B + C: 20 EUR, 2 days: 25 EUR, 3 days: 30 EUR. Children are half the price, there are family packages. Audio commentary in Russian is available. Tickets are accepted on city buses and trams.

City tours on segways from 65 EUR. Rafting tours in the Arno from 25 EUR. From May to September, you can order the most romantic tour - a ride on the Florentine gondolas. 75 minutes, from 39 EUR per passenger.

River tram

You can also see Florence from an unusual perspective from the deck of a river tram. These small pleasure boats for 40 passengers cruise past famous landmarks, so don't forget your camera - extraordinary pictures are guaranteed. Such transport is available from spring to mid-autumn, at this time the course of the river within the city is calm, you can not be afraid of rolling.

Motor scooters, segways, bicycles

The compactness of Florence and the limitation of traffic in the central part of the city make it possible to rent a small transport. A day's rent of a moped or motorcycle costs from 50 to 75 EUR. There are companies offering segway rentals: 1 hour: 18 EUR, 3 hours: 45 EUR.

80 km of bike paths in Florence are a great reason to rent a bike! Price per hour: from 2 to 5 EUR, per day: 10-14 EUR. The most affordable prices for the municipal rental program: pick-up stations are located at the Santa Maria Novella train station and on Via Ghiberti. Hours of rental at the Santa Maria Novella station from March to October: Monday - Saturday: 8:00 - 19:00, from November to February: 10:00 - 17:00. Rental hours on Via Ghiberti from March to October: Monday - Saturday: 9:00 - 18:00, from November to February: 10:00 - 17:00. Sunday is a day off. Also, rentals may not work on national holidays.

A tricycle can be rented from the same cycle rickshaws for 80-120 EUR, depending on the season.

Florence maps

Car rental in Florence

If you are not planning to set off from Florence on an independent and long trip around Tuscany, then there is no point in renting a car. In many areas of the city, only taxis and locals with special passes are allowed to travel, hundreds of public transport routes will take tourists to almost any corner of the city, including the outskirts, and suburbs and even neighboring towns can be easily reached by bus or train.

If you are determined to explore rural Tuscany and do not want to depend on a strict timetable, there are several international, Italian and local car rental companies at your service. To rent, you need to make a deposit for the car and not forget the license (ideally, an IDL, but some offices accept national ones as well). You can book the desired car in advance via the Internet and pick it up at the airport on the designated day. If you decide to rent a car in Florence, then look for rental offices south of Santa Maria Novella train station.

A 24-hour rental of a small car will cost 35-45 EUR, a minivan - 145-180 EUR, a premium class - from 250 EUR. Although you can find a nice convertible like the Peugeot 308 for 80 EUR per day.

Check the fuel type of your vehicle so you don't get screwed up at the gas station. If your smartphone does not support the navigator function, then when renting a car, you will be offered such a gadget for an additional amount, do not refuse. And be sure to ask the rental agency manager how to get out of the city center: there are many narrow one-way streets in Florence, where you can easily get into a closed area without being guided, and this is fraught with a fine of about 70 EUR. By the way, fines annually bring about 50 million EUR to the Treasury of Florence, and most of them are for travel to a closed area.

There are two words for diesel fuel in Italy: Diesel and Gasolio. The similarity of the latter with Gasoline, which is familiar to other countries, can result in a car failure and urgent engine cleaning. If your car runs on gas, look for the words Senza piombo and Benzina on the dispensers. The phrase “Bonjorno! La gasoline! Grazia! "

Another reason to think about the need to rent a car is the difficulty with parking. There are few parking spaces for visitors in the city, there are practically no free ones, and those that have a limited period of use: after a certain time, your car will simply be towed to the parking lot. Paid parking hour: 0.50-2 EUR depending on the distance to the center. Overnight parking: up to 30 EUR. Please note: parking spaces are marked in white, yellow and blue. White parking is free, but only for local residents, yellow for taxi drivers, special vehicles and disabled people, and blue ones are paid for guests of the city. The penalty for incorrect parking is from 30 EUR, but in case of evacuation of the car, the price of the oversight will increase by 4-5 times.

Connectivity and Wi-Fi

Italians are not as dependent on the World Wide Web as guests from Russia, the United States or China, so for them free Wi-Fi is more of a whim than a necessity. Therefore, most of the local hotels take a small tribute for such whims of guests - 5-7 EUR per day. There are, of course, hotels with free access, but it is better to check in advance.

Cafes and restaurants also do not spoil their guests with access to the network, perhaps they are afraid of the competition between their cuisine and Facebook. I must say, they are afraid in vain.

Firenzecard

"72 hours, 85 EUR and 72 museums" is the motto of the official guest card of the capital of Tuscany Firenzecard, which can be bought online at the official. website, at one of the ticket offices of the museum or at the information office. Whether it is worth doing is a special question. If you want to visit at least a couple of museums a day (and in Florence there is simply no other way), if the card does not pay off, it will be approximately equal to this amount, because the average price of tickets to Florentine museums is about 7 EUR. But, besides this, Firenzecard owners will not have to stand in queues at the cashier (including the famous Uffizi, Palazzo Vecchio or Palazzo Pitti), and they will be able to go to one of the selected places without queuing at all - the so-called priority will work. pass.

Florence Accommodation

Ancient Florence is a very popular city among tourists. And, it means that rooms in local hotels, although there are a lot of them, it is better to book in advance. And prepare for relatively high prices. In the off-season, you can find a "double" in the center for 45 EUR, but from April to the end of September, the cost rises by about 30%. The most budgetary options are traditionally hostels, where the price per night starts from 15-20 EUR. Large companies should pay attention to 2-3-room apartments - in addition to the opportunity to feel like a local, walking every morning for fresh buns for breakfast, the price of 100-120 EUR per night is conveniently divided into several families.

The cost per night in hotels is growing almost exponentially, which is closer to the famous Piazza della Signoria. But sometimes such a price is almost "justified": the pleasure of the opportunity to stay in a medieval palazzo with a romantic story from the life of the Medici family is worth it.

Shopping

From Florence, they usually bring all kinds of souvenirs with fragments of world famous paintings from the Uffizi, wines and cheeses, leather goods and jewelry. By the way, about the latter: a fair amount of them can be found on Ponte Vecchio, where almost every store is a jewelry store. It is also worth going to Florence for fur coats (including the famous Rindi brand) and designer clothes and shoes, which are sold both in brand stores and in outlets outside the city.

In the center of Florence there are both boutiques and small mono-brand outlets, for example, Max Mara, Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, Robero Cavalli, Fendi. Most of the outlets located in the suburbs of Florence are multi-brand: this is Sotto Sotto, where there are many evening dresses and classic suits; small The Mall with a large selection of luxury brands; Barberino Outlet (from & G and Roberto Cavalli to Levi's, Motivi, Guess) and Valdichiana Outlet with sports brands like Adidas and Puma or Cerruti and Tosca Blu. The latter is worn by ordinary Italians who do not care about brands and fashion trends.

Guides in Florence

Florence entertainment and attractions

"Cradle of the Renaissance", the most museum city in Italy, the city of spring - what epithets and nicknames Florence has not earned, and they are all extremely flattering. I must say, quite deservedly: even in winter, this city located in the Tuscan valleys calls to life. Here you breathe differently, you feel differently, even the sunlight, the scourge of all artists, lays down somehow especially, in a different way. And you understand this best of all, walking along the narrow streets of Florence, when now and then, here and there, the roof of the Duomo flashes through the gap - perhaps one of the most majestic cathedrals in the country. By the way, it is also atypical - completely covered with pale green, white and pinkish marble plates with a luscious terracotta roof, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore literally pushes into the arms of color, art and love. Love for Florence. Actually, this cathedral is the heart of the city. If we continue the theme of the human body, then its main vital organs will be located in Piazza Michelangelo, from where the best views of Florence open. Naturally. These beauties are connected by the legendary Ponte Vecchio ("Old Bridge") with its famous Vasari Corridor - a secret passage specially built for the Medici dynasty.

Temples of Florence

The soul of the city is revealed in its many cathedrals, chapels, baptiseries and churches. The very best - of course, Santa Maria del Fiore - this Gothic cathedral is best viewed from the observation deck on Piazzale Michelangelo. It is simply impossible to fit the juicy colossus of the temple into the lens of a camera close up. How impossible not to fall in love with this architectural masterpiece. Nearby is the very bell tower of Giotto, for the sake of a view of which thousands of tourists overpay decent money to hotels. And, of course, the tiny (compared to the Duomo) baptistery of San Giovanni is a baptismal house where all the eminent babies of the Florentine Republic screamed obscenely during Epiphany.

Two more significant temples of the city (in addition to a dozen amazing churches with masterpieces of one kind or another) are the basilicas of San Lorenzo and Santa Croce. The first, so to speak, is famous for the tombs of members of the Medici clan. The latter contains the famous "Pantheon of Florence" - the tombs of the most famous citizens of Florence, including Michelangelo, Machiavelli, Galileo, Rossini and Dante.

Florence museums

Among other things, Florence has a huge number of museums.

The Uffizi Gallery in Piazza Senoria is not only one of the oldest museums in Italy, but also the most complete and significant collection of Italian painting in the world. The San Marco Museum is famous for the frescoes and paintings of the great Dominicans Fra Beato Angelico and Fra Bartolomeo, as well as the cells of Savonarola. Interesting are the Gallery of the Academy of Fine Arts, where there is the original of that same David, from the contemplation of which schoolchildren, ladies and art critics blush (alas, all for different reasons).

The Pitti Palace, as well as the Vecchio, have gathered under their roof a whole string of museums, one of the most interesting is the Pitti Gallery in the royal apartments. It is worth visiting the memorial meetings, because Florence, like no other city, is famous for its eminent citizens. For example, you can go to the Medici Museum in the Medici Ricardi Palace. Or to the house-museum of Michelangelo Buonarotti. It was here that the great sculptor and painter created his early creations - the reliefs "Madonna della Scala" and "Battle of the Centaurs". Michelangelo's personal library and a collection of drawings, personally signed by the hand of a genius - as a bonus. Another worthy exposition in the House-Museum of Dante Alighieri. The building itself is noteworthy - it is something like a tower where one of the greatest Italian poets was born and where his priceless manuscripts are kept.

Piazza della Signoria, about the drawing that Michelangelo quickly scribbled behind Hercules, about medieval intrigues, bloody massacres and the triumph of good. In a word, Florence is a city of fairy tales, and museum collections directly confirm this. First of all, you should go to the Museo Dei Ragazzi ("Museum for Boys"), where, of course, young ladies are not forbidden to enter. Both will be dressed with equal agility in knights or will tell you how to experiment with a vacuum. Continuing the knightly theme, it is worth taking a look at the Stibbert Museum - a magnificent collection of Western weapons and Japanese armor. You can finish the boyish leitmotif in the museum of the Piaggio scooter brand - that's where you can't drag dads and guys by the ears (located in Pontedera, 40 minutes from Florence).

In the Children's Museum in Palazzo Vecchio, the children will be looked after by the gloomy "owner" of the house - Cosimo Medici, who will lead them through the secret corridors and rooms of the palace, and will allow them to try on cloaks, dresses and masks from the 16th century. Curious children will certainly be interested in the old compasses, astrolabes and maps in the Galileo Museum.

You can get away from the museum exhibits in Pinocchio Park in Collodi (an hour's journey by car). The main “must-see” is the Toy Land, which tells the story of the adventures of a cocky wooden boy, as well as a large playground, a shop and a giant chessboard. 10 kilometers from Collodi is the excellent spa resort of Montecatini Terme, where parents should stop by for some relaxing treatment.

"All roads lead to Rome," but one of them must necessarily pass through Florence in order to travel in Italy became truly unforgettable. After all, this is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, the cradle of the Renaissance, the richest treasury of masterpieces of world art.

Its history begins in 59 BC, when Julius Caesar himself founded a military settlement on the banks of the Arno River. The fertile lands of Florence ("blooming", as its name is translated), framed by picturesque hills, for several centuries have been raided by barbarian tribes. Starting in the 10th century, after a long period of decline, the city experienced a revival, which began with a resumption of economic activity and an increase in population.

Since that time, crafts, trade, and the financial sector have begun to develop in the city (the florin has long been the most popular and reliable currency in Europe). Florence is actively building up, getting rich. In 1434 the Medici dynasty came to power.This family ruled intermittently for almost 3 centuries, precisely in the era Medici Florence reached its peak, becoming a real rival in power to Rome itself. The founder of the dynasty, Cosimo Medici pursued a smart and flexible policy, as a result of which he managed to avoid military conflicts with Venice and Milan and strengthen the dominant role of Florence in Tuscany.In 1743, the Medici line ended. The Duchy of Tuscany passes under the rule of the Austrian crown, and then, following the results of a plebiscite, joins the Italian kingdom. From 1864 to 1870, Florence was the capital of Italy, ceded this title to Rome after it became part of the kingdom.

The visiting card of Florence is rightfully considered Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, one of the four largest Christian churches in the world. It was built over 6 centuries with interruptions due to various reasons: financial difficulties, changes in architects, plague epidemics.When the walls were finally erected by 1380, it turned out that it was problematic to build a dome for such a huge building. The architect Brunelleschi ventured into a risky project, who created a light brick 8-sided dome with a diameter of 42 m without formwork and scaffolding. This masterpiece of engineering is still pleasing to the eye with its graceful aspiration upward and defines the characteristic silhouette of the Tuscan capital.

From the observation deck, to which there are 460 steps, it opens in all its glory Florence, photo the panoramas of the city made there are especially good. The clock of the cathedral, created in 1443, is also noteworthy. The dial was painted by the renowned Renaissance artist Paolo Uccello. Until now, clocks measure time according to the Italian time reckoning, better known as "Julian time". Their peculiarity is that there is only one hand, which moves in the opposite direction along the dial, divided by 24 hours.

Near the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is its bell tower - Campanila Giotto, a monument of Florentine Gothic. The height of this building is 84 m, it is decorated with panels by Giotto and statues by Donatello.

The interiors of this temple are decorated with frescoes by Giotto, they are so beautiful that Stendhal himself, admiring them, almost fainted.In addition, the Basilica of Santa Croce is the burial place of famous townspeople, a kind of Florentine pantheon. Lorenzo Bartolini, Galileo Galilei, Niccolo Machiavelli, Michelangelo Buanarotti, Gioacchino Rossini, Enrico Fermi are buried here.

Dante's tomb is located next to them, but his ashes are buried in Ravenna.

The great poet, creator of the literary Italian language, was expelled from Florence for political reasons and died far from his hometown and the love of his life, Beatrice.It is this unfulfilled love that is the symbol of another Florentine temple - the Church of St. Margaret, which is popularly called the Church of Dante and Beatrice. Here the great poet saw her for the first time, here he got married with another, unloved one. Both women are buried here: Beatrice and Gema.

Not far from this sad temple is the house-museum of Dante, where he was born and lived until his expulsion from Florence. His wife Djema did not follow him, not wanting to share with the great poet the hardships and deprivation of exile.

They are associated with the names, creations of great people and the square of Florence steeped in the romantic spirit of the Renaissance. For example, Piazalle Michelangelo, built in 1869 on a hill with a magnificent view of the city. There are bronze copies of the most famous works of the great sculptor, including the famous David.

Piazza della Signoria is the center of the political life of the capital of Tuscany. Here is the Palazzo Vecchio, where at different times the Council of the Republic, the Council of Priors met, and now the municipality of Florence is located there. The space in front of the palace is filled with sculptures made by Cellini, Bandinelli, Donatello. The central place is occupied by a copy of the same David by Michelangelo (the original is kept in the Academy Gallery). No less monumental is the fountain of Neptune, which the locals call the White Giant.

The Vecchio Palace is one of the most famous Palazzo Florence... It was built from 1299 to 1314 by the architect Arnolfo di Cambio as a government residence. This huge building looks like it was hewn out of solid rock. It is made in the form of a rectangle, and the gallery is decorated with battlements. The belfry and Arnolfo tower look like miniature copies of the gallery, and form an organic single ensemble.

A huge number of masterpieces of world art stores Florence... After all, the greatest artists, sculptors, musicians, poets, philosophers, who preached the ideas of universal harmony, love and humanism, as opposed to medieval obscurantism, lived and worked here under the patronage of the Medici family. Michelangelo, Botticelli, Cellini, Raphael, Titian worked with inspiration in this wonderful city under the mighty wing of enlightened patrons of the arts.The repository of the works of the geniuses of the Renaissance is Uffizi gallery, which was in the personal possession of the Medici family until the middle of the 18th century, when Anna Maria Luisa donated it to the city. Now it is one of the largest and richest museums in the world.

The founder of the Medici dynasty, Duke Cosimo I, began to build the Uffizi Palace (gallery of chanceries). He wanted to put all the officials in one building so that it would be easier to control them. To decorate the interiors, the Duke did not regret the masterpieces of the family collection, and his successors continued to supply new works of art to the new palace. So the museum fund was gradually replenished, the first exhibition halls began to open, where aristocrats, diplomats, representatives of the Tuscan bohemia were invited.

Over time, there was no more room for officials in the Uffiza gallery, and it turned into a full-fledged museum. Now it is visited by about 2 million tourists annually. The collection includes paintings "The Birth of Venus", "Spring", "Slander", "Madonna and Child with an Angel" by Botticelli, "Adoration of the Magi" by Leonardo da Vinci, "Venus of Urbino" by Titian, there are rooms of Caravaggio, Raphael, Michelangelo.

The pearl of Tuscany is magnificent in its proud beauty Florence attractions which can be fully appreciated only by visiting this city more than once.

Back in the distant XIV century, Florence was considered the second city after Rome, which absorbed the best that could be found in the capital of the great Roman Empire.

Even today, it is famous all over the world for its many attractions, a special romantic atmosphere that you will not find anywhere else in the world. It is no coincidence that the immortal creations of writers, poets and composers appeared in Florence. In this city Fyodor Dostoevsky finished his novel "The Idiot", in this city Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky combined rest and work on "The Queen of Spades", the legendary Demidov dynasty lived here for a long time. In honor of Russian patrons of art, grateful Italians even changed the name of the Medici Villa, which is currently listed as Villa Demidoff in all tourist avenues.

Basilica of Santa Croce

Alas, it is rather difficult to convey in words the feeling of happiness that does not leave every guest of Florence for a minute. It is impossible to describe it, just as impossible as trying to give a clear definition of inspiration in the text. In the Italian city, which houses a huge number of ancient monuments of history and architecture, you constantly want to create something new, create a world of beauty with your own hands. "A beautiful mirror of Tuscany", "The most delicate flower of Italy", "Derived from great Rome and inherited its greatness", these are just a few loud and vivid definitions given to Florence by the great founder of the Renaissance, heir to the knightly order of Colluccio Solutati.

Perhaps, to some, the words of Judge Solutati may seem too pompous, while others may think that there are too many exaggerations in his description of the Italian city. However, only those people who have never been lucky enough to visit Florence can think so. Already after the first visit to this city, the outlook of many travelers changes. It is not for nothing that in a sunny and noisy country there is a proverb: "You can visit majestic and eternal Rome, mysterious Venice and sparkling Milan, but if you have not seen Florence, then you know absolutely nothing about Italy!" It is no coincidence that the name “second Rome” is translated literally into Russian as “blossoming”. Many poets dedicated their poems to this flourishing city, where they drew endless inspiration. You can talk endlessly about the unique atmosphere of Florence, but in this article you should dwell in more detail on the history of this Italian city, its sights and the greatest architectural monuments.

Santa Maria del Fiore

Florence: an excursion into history

Many historians who have studied the chronicles that have survived to this day claim that a city called Florence was founded around 59 BC. Moreover, there is even a version saying that the “blooming” one appeared on the world map at the site of a small settlement by the order of Gaius Julius Caesar himself. True, it is worth noting that this version does not have solid ground and is considered in many works as an assumption. At the moment, there are no precise data indicating Caesar's participation in the founding of the "second Rome". The very first mentions of Florence can be found only in documents that date back to the 4th century AD.

It was during this period of time that the place where the veterans of Rome lived for the most part was considered the main residence of the bishop. Already in those days, Florence was a rich city, where former legionnaires enjoyed a well-deserved rest and spent all their time in entertainment establishments. Veterans in the Roman Empire have always been treated with special respect. By the way, the word "veteran" occurred precisely during the reign of Caesar. Only the warrior who fought for the honor of the greatest empire in those days for at least 20 (!) Years could receive this title. Considering the endless wars, campaigns against the Gauls, we can draw a certain conclusion: there were not so many lucky survivors. Therefore, the privileges they enjoyed were practically limitless.

Palazzo Pitti

In 1115, Florence gained almost complete independence and began to be called a commune. Until that time, the city managed to be under the rule of the Franks, Ostrogoths and even the Lombards. Since independence, the flourishing city began to flourish: already in 1252, the first coin of the purest gold was minted in it, its name is known to many even in our time - florin. Thanks to the uninterrupted sale of wool, the city's treasury grew, the population constantly increased. A blow to the economy and demographic situation in Florence was struck by the plague, which in 1340 was called the "Black Death". It was impossible to hide from her, effective medicines did not yet exist. Both the poor and the richest citizens fell dead right in the streets of the once majestic and densely populated city.

The plague spared only a few, but the city's population recovered quickly, in large part thanks to newcomers. After the worst mora in the history of the city, two famous cathedrals are being built in Florence: Palazzo Vecchio and the legendary Santa Maria del Fiore. Already in the 14th century, Dante Aguileri's Divine Comedy was born. Every modern Italian considers this manuscript to be the second most important after the Bible. The point is that it was in the "Divine Comedy" that the Tuscan dialect was "born", and to be very precise - the Italian language, which is spoken by the modern inhabitants of the country. The 14th century can be safely called the brightest and at the same time the most tragic episode in the history of Florence. The reign of the Medici dynasty, the plague that claimed tens of thousands of lives, the heyday of the Renaissance and the birth of two brilliant artists Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci at once - these are just a small part of the significant events that took place in the flourishing city in the fourteenth century.

All Saints Church

In 1737, the Dukes of Lothargin came to power in Florence. During their reign, the city continued to flourish, but the flourishing of culture is already a thing of the past. During the period of the struggle for freedom, called the Risorgimento, "the second city after Rome" from 1865 to 1871 serves as the capital (!) Of the Italian kingdom. To our great regret, many monuments of history and architecture were destroyed at this time, and in their place strange and, one might even say, pompous buildings, uncharacteristic for Florence, appeared. The Second Party also inflicted great damage on the city. World War: Constant bombing by American and British aircraft, as well as the barbaric actions of the Nazis, forever wiped out many ancient buildings and magnificent bridges.

Another date that the inhabitants of Florence remember with a shudder is November 4, 1966: during the flood, more than 250 million cubic meters of water poured into the city from the Arno. True, thanks to the search and restoration work, in which thousands of Italians and residents from other European countries voluntarily participated, a huge number of documents, sculptures and monuments were preserved. However, just over three million (!) Priceless ancient books and about 14,000 paintings were damaged. This incident was a good lesson for the Italian authorities, which immediately after the flood took measures to ensure the safety of not only local residents, but also ancient tomes, frescoes, manuscripts and paintings.

National Central Library of Florence

Florence: a blooming city

Nowadays, Florence, along with Rome, Venice and Milan, can be called one of the most visited cities in Italy. A huge number of temples, including Santa Croce, Santa Maria del Fiore, Santa Maria Novella; the Uffizi gallery; the palaces of Vecchio, Pitti, Bargello and Strozzi are just a few of the attractions that, like a magnet, attract hundreds of thousands of tourists from all over the world to Florence. It is in the flourishing city that the bridges named Vecchio, Santa Trinita, Ponte alle Grazie can be considered not only an example of engineering, but also the most real works of art.

In the huge museums of Florence, you can see the original paintings of Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, the works of Dante, Galileo Galileo and many others. It is interesting that these geniuses, who lived in different periods of time, were born and worked in the flourishing city. By the way, the historic center of Florence, where you can almost always meet a huge number of travelers from other countries, is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. There is nothing surprising in this: even in many scientific (!) Publications, the Italian city is often called the city of an open-air museum and even “Italian Athens”.

Ponte Vecchio

Describing all the sights of Florence will probably be superfluous. Even with all the desire to fit them into one material, it is impossible. Every street, every old house, temple, museum and bridge has an interesting history. In Florence, as well as in its suburbs, tourists do not let go of their cameras: here you want to shoot absolutely everything.

Before digital cameras were on the market, the sale of camera films brought tangible income to local entrepreneurs. However, in this city "money is made" not only on souvenirs, attractions, museums and national cuisine. In sunny and sometimes rainy Florence, a wide variety of large-scale festivals are held during the season. The most interesting of them are "Cricket Holiday", "Fireworks and Burning Carriage Festival (!)". A visit to ... a football game will give you a lot of impressions. True, the games are not ordinary: in June, the players of both teams play against each other in the costumes that the locals wore during the Middle Ages! In addition, Florence is considered the second capital of fashion after Milan. This city regularly hosts shows of the latest collections from the most famous fashion designers and fashion exhibitions. Thousands of city guests are in a hurry to visit "Knitwear", "Ready-made dress" and "Haberdashery".

Triumphal Arch on Freedom Square

Florence: what a tourist needs to know about a flourishing city

Before planning a tour to Florence, all travelers living in the post-Soviet countries should remember that they will not be able to buy a direct ticket to Florence. First you need to fly to Rome, and only then you can get to Florence by train. The trip by car will be remembered for a long time: picturesque landscapes, a lot of sights that can be seen on the way to the flourishing city - all this awaits the motorist, who took care of the presence of a green card in advance. By the way, driving around Florence is quite expensive: parking in the city alone costs more than 3 euros per hour. In addition, do not forget that it is not possible to get to any attraction located in the historical center by car. Only public transport has the right to move along the ancient streets. By the way, if you plan to walk around the city at night, it is best to park your car before dusk. Otherwise, you will have to redeem your vehicle from the parking lot: parking your car at night on the streets of Florence is strictly prohibited.

Tuscany is one of the world's largest wine regions. For several centuries, the economy of Florence was based on the cultivation of grapes. Now this industry is somewhat inferior to heavy industry, but continues to lead in agriculture. The Sangiovese grape, carefully grown south of the city in the Chianti region, is still popular and is considered one of the most famous varieties in the world.

The city of Florence can easily compete with Milan or Rome for the title of "center of haute couture". Many well-known firms have their own offices here, for example - Ferragamo and Gucci. In all districts of the city you can find elite clothing stores, the variety and richness of goods in which can surprise even the most sophisticated fashionistas. Local textile factories work directly with top designers from Milan, Rome and Paris.

Tourism is also a significant source of income in the city treasury. The largest number of guests arrive between April and October. At this time, the weather is favorable for long walks, various exhibitions, festivals and conferences are held. There really is something to see here: more than 80 museums are open, there are a huge number of art galleries, exhibition halls, you can find magnificent sculptures or frescoes on every street and street.

Tip: The best products of the Florentine industry are leather accessories (wallets, belts, shoes, bags) and natural cosmetics. The latter can be purchased at almost any pharmacy, where they are made according to an old recipe. All leather products are sold in textile stores and even with modest financial resources, you will be offered an interesting and inexpensive option.

Blooming capital of the region

The founder of the city of Florence is Julius Caesar. According to archaeological data, it was he in 59 BC. organized a settlement for legionnaires near the Arno River. Later it received the name "Florence", which means "blooming". Like many Italian cities, Florence has experienced many tragic moments in its history: wars, raids by barbarians, civil strife and devastation.

She managed to get out of prolonged stagnation and decline only in the 9th century. The most developed at this time were weapons, weaving and leather production, banking and trade. Local bankers managed to gain trust not only in their homeland, but also far beyond its borders. Soon monarchs from all over the European continent began to use their services. The city flourished with the advent of the Medici dynasty. Artists, sculptors, scientists and architects began to come here to live, study and create.

Modern Florence lives up to its name. It is flooded with greenery and a wide variety of flowers, which are sold everywhere: in shops, small kiosks, in the market, at the entrance to a theater, museum or restaurant. In all cafes, there are always vases with roses, daisies, etc. on the tables, and there are certainly flower beds at the benches on the streets.

Florence - the city of sculptors and painters

Florence surprisingly combines the latest achievements of civilization, the vibrant life of a modern city and the unique beauty of the Middle Ages. While walking along its streets, one gets the feeling that the past is quite tangible and real. After all, here, for example, the same building has survived, at the walls of which Dante wrote his “ Divine Comedy", Or a workshop where Michelangelo carved a statue of David from marble. And the history of the city is connected not only with these two names. It was the home of Boccaccio, Brunelleschi, Leonardo da Vinci, Donatello and many others. You can look at the rich heritage of artistic values ​​of that time in the Uffizi Gallery - the city's most famous museum.

Each part of Florence has its own church, built in a special architectural style. The most interesting are the Basilica of San Lorenzo, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, the Basilica of Santa Croce and the bell tower of Giotto.

The only thing that cannot be found in great variety in the city is crazy discos. Although, if you really want to dance, then in the center of Florence there are several establishments where entertaining shows with fireworks, foam and a sea of ​​alcohol are held every night.