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Florence
~ historic centre - sights and views ~
UNESCO World Heritage
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 The
first stage of our trip was the time-honoured capital of Tuscany, Florence, the history of which dates back to Roman times. We reached the
historic centre passing over Ponte Vecchio, the most beautiful bridge which
spans the river Arno. The well preserved, grand old town is full of attractive
historic monuments and art treasures that reflect the wealth and power
of the city in the middle ages and the leading economical, political and
cultural position which Florence gained in the 15th century
under the Medici. We enjoyed the charm of the city very much, but unfortunately
our time limit allowed us to visit only a few sights in detail. We decided
on the Palazzo Vecchio (1299 – 1314) and the magnificent cathedral
Santa Maria del Fiore (1296-1436) and again were deeply impressed. |
The Ponte
Vecchio is a lovely example of medieval bridge development. The bridge
had
 several predecessors, which became,
however, victims of floods. The present three- arched bridge was built
in 1345. On the bridge are located numerous small houses, where mainly
jewellers have established themselves. It’s a good address for lovers of
elaborate golden jewellery and truly it’s difficult to resist this temptation.
In 1565 a passage above the shops was added which connects the Palazzo
Vecchio with the Palazzo Pitti and allowed the princely family to move
unseen between both palaces. |
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Piazza della Signoria
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Piazza della Signoria
Neptun fountain
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Santa Maria del Fiore
cathedral complex
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Basilika Santa Croce
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UNESCO World Heritage Florence
tourist
guide to Florence
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