Three historic landmarks in Florence
Florence was once described as being “an outdoor museum”. It is a city so rich in architectural marvels and prodigious landscapes that you want to get lost in it. And boy can you get lost in Florence!
If you are lucky to find yourself misplaced in one of Florence’s inspiring cobbled streets, we have located three of just many of the great landscapes this magnificent city boasts to help you orientate yourself. Enjoy our three historic landmarks in Florence:
Piazza della Signoria
With its bronze statue of Perseus holding aloft the head of Medusa and other huge statues of Greek heroes and legends, the Piazza della Signoria, in central Florence, is a fantastic meeting place to re-orientate yourself and soak in the general feeling and hustle of this captivating city.
Piazza della Signoria is a popular starting point for guided tours of Florence, or for anyone wanting to relax with a cold beer or perhaps a gelato!
Duomo
Described as being the “heart and soul of Florence”, the domed cathedral, originally called the Duomo, is a sight in Florence not to be missed. Originally built in 1296 in a Gothic style, the Duomo was completed in 1436 with its magnificent dome engineered by Filippo Brunelleschi.
The cathedral complex, which is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located inside the Piazza del Duomo, which includes the Baptistery and Giotto’s Campanile.
Ponte Vecchio
Another great place to come and contemplate the city of Florence is the Ponte Vecchio. From this imposing bridge you are provided with superb views of Florence and the beautiful Tuscan countryside surrounding it. Ponte Vecchio was originally built in Roman times but it was rebuilt in 1345 after it was washed away in a flood.
For years a tradition in Florence meant that young lovers would come to the bridge and lock padlocks to it before throwing away the keys in order to symbolise their love. But the gesture got so out of hand that the local police now hand out fines for anyone found practising it! Nonetheless the Ponte Vecchio remains a popular spot for those seeking a romantic setting, especially during sunset.