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Florence (Firenze or, Florentia) is the capital city of Tuscany, Italy. Florence, the birthplace of Renaissance, is the home of famous historic figures such as Michelangelo, Machiavelli, and the Medici. Florence is city rich in history, beautiful Renaissance architecture and is known as the world’s greatest artistic capital. The historic city center is easily explored by foot. Works by Donatello, Michelangelo, Botticelli and Brunelleschi, can be seen in the numerous cathedrals and museums in Florence. Florence’s historic center has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982.

Julius Caesar founded the Roman colony Florentia on the Arno River in 59 BC. By the 3rd century AD, the population of Florence exceeded 10.000 citizens. The Middle Age city was ruled by twelve consuls appointed by the Council of One Hundred. In the 14th century, the city was governed by the Guelphs, led by the Albizi family. Starting in the 1460s, Florence experienced a remarkable growth. The court of Lorenzo il Magnifico fostered the flourishing of arts, music, and poetry. In 1860, Florence was incorporated into the Kingdom of Italy. The city functioned briefly as a national capital until 1870.

The city boosts rich cultural life. The Intercity Festival presents the art and cultural heritage of a chosen country each year. The festival gathers foreign acting troupes, stage plays, and productions. Moreover, Florence hosts many religious, historical, and cultural landmarks. The Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore is the duomo of the city. The cathedral was designed by Alnorfo di Cambio in 1296. The Gothic complex comprises of Baptistery and the Giotto’s Campanille. The Medieval Ponte Vecchio is one of the oldest stone bridges in Europe. The site had been rebuilt and destroyed several times. The structure of Ponte Vecchio was designed by Taddeo Gaddi in 1345. The bridge is comprised of three arches and houses many shops and merchant stands. The Uffizi Palace used to display the extensive art collection of the Medici family. At present, the famous gallery showcases works of art by Giotto, Hugo van der Hoes, Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Rafael, and Titan, among others. The cafe-lined Piazza della Signoria stands for the city’s political centre. The square hosts Palazzo Vecchio, the formal seat of the Florentine government. Constructed by Arnolfo di Cambrio in 1314, the castle has served as the residence of Cosmo I.

Florence boosts excellent museums and art galleries. The Museo Archeologico displays a rich collection of artifacts and antiquities, offering a glimpse to the Egyptian, Etruscan, and Greco-Roman cultural life. The Museo del Bargelo is housed inside the oldest public building of Florence. The museum displays sculpture and works of art from the Tuscan Renaissance. Galleria dell’ Accademia was the first European art academy. At present, the gallery showcases an extensive collection of 15th and 16th century paintings. The famous David by Michelangelo is on display in the gallery.

Florence is romantic, exquisite, and multi-colored. The absorbing city evokes thoughts of a glorious past and rich cultural life.



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	Basilica San Lorenzo Basilica di San Lorenzo was the town church of The Medici family.		Basilica Santa Croce Basilica di Santa Croce was built in the late 13th century.
	Duomo Santa Maria del Fiore Duomo Santa Maria del Fiore is the symbol of Florence.		Galleria dell’ Accademia Most famous work of art by Michelangelo is in the Galleria.
	Palazzo Pitti Palazzo Pitti was the main residence for Florence’s rulers.		Piazza della Signoria Piazza della Signoria is located in the heart of Florence.
	Ponte Vecchio Ponte Vecchio is the famous bridge over the Arno River.		Santa Maria Novella Santa Maria Novella has the famous Green Cloister.
	Uffizi Uffizi is considered Italy’s greatest Art Gallery.