There are many exotic and beautiful countries to visit all over the world. One of the most exotic and beautiful countries that we recommend you visit is Florence, Italy. Florence is full of culture and history. At every turn you will be given a chance to view the amazing Romanesque architecture that still remains a symbol of what the city used to be and still is today. There are many historical places to visit and we have created a list of the top five places that you should not miss out on.
Ponte Vecchio
This bridge is one of the most popular landmarks in all of Florence. This is just one of six bridges that were saved during the retreat of the Germans in 1944. The bridge was built in 1345 during which it was used to house butcher shops. These shops would throw the dead carcasses that they would not use into the Arno and cause a great smell. In order to stop the horrible smell the Grand Duke Fernandino replaced the butchers with goldsmiths.
Galleria degli Uffizi
This art gallery was used by the Medici family. During the 1700’s this family would reserve many of the rooms to hold their dozens of prestigious art collections. The whole place has a total of 40 rooms and inside it houses art pieces that were created by Michelangelo, Leonardo, Raphael, and Caravaggio. The ceilings and corridors themselves have been painted with beautiful frescoes and are lined with 16th century and Roman sculptures.
Piazzale Michelangelo
The Piazzale Michelangelo is well known for the panoramic views of
Florence, Italy as well as the Arno valley. Many tourists as well as locals will stand on this terrace and snap some of the best pictures of Florence.
It was built as a major part of the restructuring of the city walls. In 1871 Giuseppe Poggi designed a monument that was dedicated to Michelangelo (hence the name). The monument was to be built out of copies of Michelangelo’s many works or art including the Medici chapel sculptures from San Lorenzo and ‘David’.
Santa Maria del Fiore - Il Duomo
The Il Duomo is legendary and a symbol of the city’s famous skyline. It is most famous for its dome - which was Filippo Brunelleschi’s Renaissance masterpiece. This double dome was finished in 1436 and was created to be completely self supporting. It is a sign as the largest masonry dome ever in the world and is made up of 4,000,000 bricks. Climb the 463 steps to make your way to the top and get a view of the city that is spectacular and one that you won’t easily forget.
Basilica di Santa Maria Novella
This church was created in 1278 by Fra Ristoro and Fra Sisto. These two were apart of the Dominican order. Construction was passed onto the Fra Jacopo Talenti and Fra Giovanni da Campi. The design of the church was a Gothic style - which is visible to those who visit.
Along with all of these historical sites you will also be able to visit the many authentic restaurants in the area. There you will be able to drink some of the best wine and dine in romantic restaurants that offer delicious meals. To complete you stay at one of their many luxurious hotels. The
Grand Hotel Baglioni is one of the best and most luxurious hotels in Florence.
