Where is now. Note that "David", like most sculptures of that time, was cut out of the Balbe of Carrara Marble - the material also mined in Tuscany.
On Signoria Square, you can admire the sculpture "Judith from Ololfern" - this is the original work of Donatello. She first appeared here in the sign of the expulsion of Medici in 1494 and marked the liberation of the city from Tirana.
In the loggia, Dei Lanci, beautiful Arcade buildings of the 14th century (Quatrocheto, early revival) on Signoria Square, there are several sculptural masterpieces from the neighboring Uffizi Gallery and including "Perseus with the head of jellyfish" Benvenuto Cellini.
- By the way, this elegant structure was built only for the placement of armed guards, Landsknecht from Germany. Which the authorities intended to be used to protect against happened so often uprising citizens
If you move to the north (leaving Arno) from Signoria Square, then in short time you can reach Duomo, the main attraction of the city. The construction of Santa Maria del Fiore was dictated by the desire to put dust into the eyes of all Italy and declare Florence as the first city of Europe. The cathedral, however, became a long-term (started at the end of the XIII century, is completed in the XIX), but is a truly unforgettable spectacle.
White and green marble, overwhelming. The square is clearly small for such a giant and happy one who will be able to get the whole building in the lens.
The famous dome of the brown architect Bruneland, the first invented complex, double-circuing (external and internal arch) design, beautiful, decorated with fitted arches and statues of green-white marble facade and wonderful proportions. Square bell tower of Jotto together leave an indelible impression.
Near the Cathedral is the Baptisuserians of San Giovanni, in which all the famous Florentines were baptized. It is said that this is the oldest of the preserved city buildings. The ceiling of a small octagonal building in the Romanesque style is posted with beautiful mosaic panels, and its amazing bronze gates of Lorenzo Hibri is considered one of the masterpieces of revival.
Stern brick masonry Church of San Lorenzo will visit not every amateur beautiful. Despite the fact that Brunnelesov himself put the perestroika, and the most prominent representatives of a powerful family rest in Capepellet. Sculpture for Capella, the famous Allegory "Day" and "Night", "Morning" and "Evening" scolding Michelangello, and many art historians consider her the peak of the creativity of the Titan Renaissance.
A native Palace of Medici Riccardi is located very close to the square. Paying attention to the powerful stone rust of the walls - he may be envied by Palazzo Pitti.
Among the iconic attractions of the Tuscan capital, we will mention and the Basilica of Santa Croce (Holy Cross), once the main Franciscan temple of Europe. And part-time the tomb of the most famous sons of Italy (not all of them, however, Florentines for birth): Michelangelo, Makiavelli, Galilee, Rossini, Marconi, Fermi.
There is here and the tombstone of Dante Aligiery, famous Florentine ,. True, the calm is not here, but in Ravenna (Emilia-Romagna), on the other coast of the "Italian boot". Despite the requests of the Florentineians, Ravenna did not want to part with the ashes of the genius, as if she would say that he would not send the remains of Dante to the city that did not assess him during his lifetime.
On the other side of Arno, if you take the left, while moving from the Ponte-Vecchio bridge, the magnificent boboli gardens will be discovered behind.
The Renaissance Palace, built by the opponent of Medici, the Pitti Banker, and turned into the main residence of the Medici, and then the Great Dukes of Tuscan, has a number of luxury front interiors and an amazing collection of painting.
- The Palatian gallery, apartment in the halls of the palace, is considered the largest artistic assembly of Florence
Here are as many as 11 paintings of the Great Rafael alone. As well as Titian and Tintoretto, Georgeon and Caravaggio, Rubens and Wang Diek, Murilo ...
Another remarkable place where the lion's share of panoramic photos of Florence is made - Michelangelo Square in the southern part of the city. From the opening species captures the Spirit, and no sightseeing tour will pass by this point.
Where to eat
Twice the author of these lines tried to eat in Florence and each time remained dissatisfied. Not too tasty (purchased frozen pizza from the CONAD supermarket looks preferable), they are serviced without desire and warmth - too many tourists, and prices ... It remains to be consoled only by the fact that in Venice even higher.
The most inexpensive pizza in the cafe in Florence will cost 6 euros, the platy paste is at least 6-7. The check will necessarily include the service fee - forget about additional tips.
It is wiser to treat a piece of pizza from the window and eat it literally on the go. What, by the way, makes the majority of tourists.
Gelato is very medium in taste. From 2 € for a miniature horn.
How to get
Not so easy to do this with the help of an aircraft - unfortunately, from Russia to the Tuscan capital they do not directly fly. First you have to get to Pisa or Verona.
Also can be reached by car or train: both from other cities of Italy and Europe. More all moments are lit in the material.
The best views of the ancient part of Florence, the Arno River, crossing the city, and almost all of its bridges opens from Michelangelo. And here, indeed, you can believe in the existence of Standal syndrome in some tourists. It is said that people under the influence of beauty concentration in Florence - a beautiful open-air museum, periodic panic attacks were experiencing, lost consciousness, sometimes exposed to madness. For the first time, such sensations during the visit in 1817 in Florence described the French writer Standal in the book "Naples and Florence: a journey from Milan to Reggio". And this is not a joke, and not a legend! But we will not go into extremes and calmly go along the Arno embankment ...
1. Currently, Florence has ten bridges across the Arno River, four of which were built after 1957. The most famous - Ponte Vecchio, the most elegant - Santa Trinit. Part of the Florence, located on the left (southern) bank of the Arno River, is called Oltrarno, before it was a poor area of \u200b\u200bFlorence.
2. In the spring and autumn of each year, when the season of shower comes in Apennines and the water level in the river rises, the coastal areas of Arno are flooded. One of the most famous floods occurred in 1966. The city suffered a significant damage: the urban embankment was destroyed, forty people died, rare books and works of art were destroyed.
3. Floods in many respects occurred due to the fact that the river flow rate is inconsistent. However, the constructed dams around Florence allowed a little to stabilize the situation.
4. The baroque facade of the Church of all Saints is visible on the right bank of Arno (Chiesa Di Ognissanti) - the result of the renewal of the church at the beginning of the XVII century. The construction of the church was started in 1251. In the XIV century, a slim bell tower was built near the church. In the XV century, Sandro Botticelli was worked in the church (he was buried in church) and Domenico Girlandiao. The church of all saints was the church arrival of Amerigo Vespucci.
Chiesa di Ognissanti
5. The first mention of the five-year elegant bridge Alla Carraya (at that time wooden) dated 1218 year. The bridge was destroyed several times and restored again. It was the first bridge in Florence, restored after the devastating flood of 1333 years. His architect may have been Jotto. Damaged once again in 1557, the bridge was reconstructed on the instructions of Kozimo I, on the project Bartolomeo Ammanati. In the XIX century, the bridge was expanded for the passage of transport.
Ponte Alla Carraia (Ponte Alla Carraia)
7. Not far from Ponte Alla Carraya right on the embankment there is a Church of San Fredano Al Cherkelo - one of the most important churches of the left bank of Arno. The dome of the church dominates the Piazza Di Cestello area.
Church of St. Sean Frediano in Cestello)
8. The existing building was built on the place of the more ancient monastery of Carmelite Santa Maria deli Angeli XV century. It was in this monastery at the end of the XVI - the beginning of the XVII century, Holy Maria Magdalene de Pazzi lived and died, which reminds of the stove on the outer wall of the church. At the end of the XVII century, a large-scale reconstruction was carried out: the entrance was now organized by Arno, and a massive dome on the drum was built. The name of the Church ("Chesterlo" is a basket), perhaps somehow connected with the Kozimo III breadmbar near the church.
9. In 1783 the monastery was dissolved, and the church received parish status, and in 1798 - its current name. At the same time, the premises of the former monastery were the Archbishop seminary, a famous fact that a magnificent library of ancient medieval codes was kept there.
11. The side streets lead in the direction of the old areas of Oltrarno.
12. The Arno River is quite wide, but not very clean. Water in her greenish shade, but it does not spoil the picturesque types of embankments.
13. In 1944, Ponte Alla Karaya was blown up by the retreating German fascist troops, but in 1948 he was restored.
14. Neighboring bridges are Ponte Santa Trinit (east) and Ponte Amerigo Vespucci (west).
17. The next bridge, connecting the shores of Arno - the most elegant Ponte Santa Trinit. The first bridge at this place was wooden (1252 years). Soon the bridge was rebuilt in stone, but again destroyed by a great flood of 1333 years.
18. At the entrance to the Bridge of the Holy Trinity on the Frescobaldi Square there is Palazzo Frescobaldi (Palace of the Mission) - dynasty with a thousand-year history.
19. The next structure of the bridge was erected from 1356 to 1415, but again died after the flood of 1557. The new bridge designed Bartolomeo Ammanati, according to the legend who discussed the project with Michelangelo. The bridge was built between 1567 and 1571, from yellow-brown stone, with three spans and innovative elliptical arches. The Bridge of the Holy Trinity, connecting the shores of Arno, looks like air and weightless. Bartolomeo Ammanati sought to create and reliable, and a beautiful building. Posted on the bridge in 1608 four allegorical statues decorate both sides of the bridge and symbolize four times of the year.
Santa Trinit Bridge
20. The bridge was destroyed during the retreat of German troops in August 1944. Since 1952, work began on the restoration of the bridge, and the solemn discovery took place in 1958. An important task was to search for four statues. So, the head "Spring" managed to find at the Day of the Arno River only in 1961.
21. We turn to the right bank of Arno on the bridge of the Holy Trinity toward Piazza di Santa Trinit. On the right side is the largest Medieval Palace of Florence - Palazzo Spini Faroni.
22. The Palace was built in 1289 for the richest merchant and Florence politician Jerry Spini, and was the only palace that could compete in great-value from Palazzo Vecchio.
23. From the bridge, the church is clearly visible on the right bank of Arno, named after the Apostle James Zejedeeva. Apse church comes directly to the river and often flooded during floods. It was probably built near the X-XI centuries, in the Romanesque style. In the Middle Ages, the church became famous for the fact that its rector in the middle of the XIII century organized a regatta (Palio Dei Navicelli), on a semi-kilometer route from Ponte Vecchio to the dam of the Holy Rosa (Pescaia di Santa Rosa), passing so far. Now the church belongs to the Greek community of Florence.
24. View from the bridge of the Holy Trinity to the West, on the right embankment Arno.
32. In the center of a small area there is a column of the Statue of Justice. This column is a gift of Pope IV Duke Kozimo I. To the installation on the square was in the terms of Caracalla in Rome.
The date of the foundation of Florence is traditionally considered to be 59 years BC. E. When in the Valley of the Arno River, a village was laid for veterans-legionnaires of the Army of Julia Caesar. According to the legend, it happened in the spring, on the days of the festivities of the goddess of flowers, the flora personifies the spring awakening of nature. To her the city is obliged to her name.
In the Roman period, the structures are characteristic of that time - Terms, Amphitheater, Aqueduct. Until now, in the central part of the city, around the former forum (today is the area of \u200b\u200bthe republic), the rectangular planning of streets is preserved for the Romans. By the end of the II century, Florence became a full-fledged city, where the headquarters of the Legion Commander, which controls the region of all modern Tuscany. The god of war Mars was considered the patron saint of the city.
In the 4th century, Christianity was established here. Florence became an archo party, and the cult of Mars was replaced by the worship of John the Baptist - a new patron of the city.
In the V century, Florence was an invasion of sharp, and from 570 to 774 years old, the Tuscany lands were mastered by the Langobard. Their rulers have chosen Luccu for their residence, and Florence has moved to the shadow. In 744, the King of Frankov Karl Great captured the Langobard kingdom, and a little later, the Tuscan Marcgrafy was founded on these lands, formally included in the Sacred Roman Empire.
At the beginning of the XII century, using a period of exacerbation of the conflict between dad and the emperor, Florentine to know the fate of the city in their hands, establishing self-government. In 1183, the Emperor Friedrich Barbarossa was forced to officially recognize the city's municipal autonomy. Florence gradually began the seizure of the surrounding territories, starting from the city of Fyezol. In the XV century, she conquered Pisa, having received access to the sea, and in the XVI century, the resistance of Siena was broken. Some Tuscan cities and territories rich Florence did not conquer, but just bought.
For its transformation from a small town to the prosperous city-state, Florence is initially obliged to trade wool. The guild of wool traders in Florence ("Arte Della Lana") exported wool from Northern Europe, and dyes from the countries of the Middle East. Using its own weaving and coloring secrets, the Florentine produced heavy red clothes and sold them throughout the Mediterranean. Huge revenues laid the foundations of the banking in Florence, which became the financial capital of Europe over the time. Golden Florins are money that was minted here in those days were an international European currency.
The rich Florence was manipulated by the government with the help of the Gutev's party (supporters of the Pope), which are in confrontation with death (supporters of the emperor). The history of this confrontation is captured in the works of Dante, Makiavelli, Shakespeare. In the 15th century, in Florence, the struggle aggravated between them, and the rich merchants led to the power of a person from his estate - Kozimo Medici. His descendants ruled in Florence until the XVIII century. From the Medici and the "Golden Age" of the city in the Renaissance Epoch, and the end of the Republican Board. In 1569, Florence, who surprised by the lands of neighboring cities, became the capital of the Great Duchy of Tuscan.
In 1737, the hereditary Duccian line of the Medici was cut off, and Tuscany moved into the hands of Habsburgs. During the Napoleonic Wars, Florence had the status of the capital formed in the Tuscany of the Kingdom of Etrury, which became one of the provinces of France. In 1814, Tuscany returned to the control of Habsburgs.
In 1860, Florentine was supported by the reunification of all Italian lands on the universal plebis. At the final stage of the risor) (national liberation struggle), from 1865 to 1870, Florence was the capital of Italy. This period was ambiguously affected by her appearance: some of the historical buildings in the city center was demolished. The end of the 20th century was marked for Florence with the expansion of urban borders to the nearest premediation and the emergence of the industrial area of \u200b\u200bRhyft.
In 1944, in the period of hostilities, when the front passed along the Arno River, the city was repeatedly subjected to bombardments. In addition, retreating, German troops blew up all the bridges, with the exception of Ponte Vecchio, which managed to save. The destructive cataclysm happened in Florence in 1966, when during the spill of the Arno River city streets were flooded, and many works of art suffered.
Culture
Florence whose name is inextricably linked with a brilliant era of revival, boasts and monuments of more ancient times. Back in the XI century, such magnificent buildings like Baptistery and Church of San Minyato al Monte were erected here. From other Romanesque churches of Italy, these facilities are distinguished by clear lines of facades and the original decor. The gothic style that came to replace the Romanesque style in Florence also has its own individual traits.
In the XIII century, the local kneading families and rejected merchant families did not regret the means for the arrangement of the city, wanting to present it and, of course, themselves in the advantageous light. The most famous masters of that time began to go here. The most famous of them was Arnolfo di Cambio. Creation of this architecture - Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiior, Palazzo Vecchio, Church of Santa Croce - still amazed with their beauty and determine the entire appearance of the city.
Contemporary Arnolfo di Cambio was the painter of Chimabue, in the works of which plastic figures was distinguished by an extraordinary grace, which was new for that time, because artists were under the strong influence of the Byzantine school demanding stylized images. The invaluable contribution to the treasury of world art introduced Jotto Di Bondone, the Great Artist and Architect. Its innovation is to use halftone, which allowed creating a bulk space on canvas, emphasizing the completeness of the life and beauty of the human body. Thanks to Jotto, painting took the main place in Florence: he also wrote more paintings in one century, rather than the German and French painters combined.
The XV century is the golden age of revival. Rich Florentine families, competing in the patronage of art, contributed to his flourishing. Not the last role in the prosperity of Florence played and the ruling family of Medici. They were especially famous for his love for the beautiful and patronage of the Duke of Kozimo I and Lorenzo magnificent. So, Kozimo Medici created the first public library in Florence. He patronized scientists, artists and poets. His grandson Lorenzo, who grew up in the kingdom of worship by art, surpassed his charitable acts of the famous ancestor, deserving the nickname "magnificent." He was different and skillful control. When politician and thinker Makiavelli wrote a treatise "Sovereign", popular and in our day the desktop book at the strengths of this world, he was inspired by the acts of Duke Lorenzo.
Outstanding representatives of the Florentine School of Renaissance were Filippo Brunlelleski, the creator of the colossal dome of the Cathedral and the sculptor Donatello, famous thanks to his psychological gift of penetration into the essence of the image of the image and knowledge of the human anatomy. Lorenzo Hibriti sculptors are not less well known, Lucca della Robbia, Andrea del Verrocko, Desiderio artists da Setignano, Mina Yes Fiezole, Antonio Rosselyino.
Zenit of the Renaissance Epoch in Florence was marked by the creativity of Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo Buonarot, Rafael Santi. But the beginning of the Great Century of Florence is connected with these names. Yes Vinci away from here in 1506 to France, and Rafael and Michelangelo moved to Rome. With the exception of the painting "Worship of Worship", Leonardo did not leave almost nothing in Florence. Michelangelo heritage is more expressive. In Florence, among others, his masterpieces is the famous "David" - the largest sculpture from marble since antiquity times. Rafael glorified Florence with his series of paintings, called "Florentine Madonna".
Near the cathedral, the bell tower of Jotto, named after her creator, although other famous architects participated in construction. On the top of this grand tower lead 285 steps. Hence the whole Florence as on the palm, and there is a strange feeling of a feeling of flight.
The north is located one of the oldest public buildings of Florence - Bargello. Sometime there was a prison, as well as the place of executions. Today in the building is the Museum of Sculpture and Applied Arts, where Donatello, Michelangelo, Chellin, Jambolonese are collected. Dante was born in this area, and it is here that the Church of the Abbey Bargello is, where the poet was published admired his heart Beatrice, coming to Sunday Messe. Around the corner, on Dante Aligiery Street, there is a house Dante, where a poet was born in 1265.
San Lorenzo
This area of \u200b\u200bFlorence, which is also known as the Medici Quarter, is famous for its trade traditions. Here and now a real market is going every day. It was closed several times, but the old tradition of indestructible - lively trade did not stop. The market spread right on the square in front of the church of Saint-Lorenzo, leading his story from the IV century. The Duke of Medici patronized this holy monastery, which became almost their own home temple.
The church is the entrance to the chapel of the Medici, the tomb of the famous family, for which Michelangelo created two wonderful tombs depicting the night and day, dawn and twilight. Next to San Lorenzo, an exquisite staircase Michelangelo, leading to the Laurency Woman library.
In this area, it is also worth viewing Palazzo Medici Riccardi - a huge and at the same time an elegant building, where Medici lived to their move to Palazzo Vecchio. The north is the majestic monastery of San Marco and the Museum of the same name.
Florentine cuisine
For all Italians of the meal - the holiday of life, they retained the attitude towards her as a theater action, and even a light snack here is accompanied by the appropriate design. The era of the Renaissance was a cooking in the rank of art, which was facilitated by Florentine merchants, based on whole gastronomic schools. And today to pass the evening in a pleasant company in Florence - solid pleasure!
Familiarity with local cuisine is best started with prostine - roasted white breads with a gentle liver pate, mushrooms or tomatoes. As a first dish (in the menu - "Primi Piatti") in Florence prefer soup with local specifics. Here they love riblite from cabbage and other vegetables with bread, arched by olive oil, as well as the pasta E Fageli or Patendell - thick soups made of noodles with Turkish pea or sauce from a hare stew. The second dishes are usually meat, many of them are prepared from game - hare, wild boar, pheasant. Traditional food is roasting from rabbit in fat, pork with spicy herbs, cooked in the oven, the famous Florentine Beefstex is a huge piece of beef in a gentle olive oil, roasted on charcoal. A typical garnish for this meat dish is a white bean in tomato sauce and a fryer from tomatoes and greenery. It will not be superfluous for lunch and a glass of pleasant to taste in Chianti's wines, which is produced south of Florence.
By completion of the feast, the dessert Tuscan Wine Santo should be ordered to glow dry almond cookies in it. And, of course, do not forget to taste Gelato - Florentine ice cream, which many are considered the most delicious in the world. Hoided the freshest sweet homemade balls are sold in special cafes-jelates (every about 1.5 €).
Street cafe in FlorenceThe most popular institutions here are a trate, where the dense dinner will cost 15-18 € per person, a light snack - 5-8 €. Pizzerias and rosticherya are not empty (Grill bar, where they are going to the evenings to drink and easily snack). You can look into the Tavola Calda - an analogue of the dining room, where it can be satisfied and inexpensive.
Trapez in the Florentine restaurant, located, located away from the historic center, will cost from 40 € with person. The closer to the Cathedral Square, the higher the prices are. Many atmospheric establishments are located right in the old palaces. Restaurant in Palazzo Antinari, where this aristocratic family lives from 1502 years. Here are served by sophisticated meals and noble wines from family basements. Excellent kitchen and wines map in Enotecca Pinchiorri, located on the first floor of the XV century palace. There is also a charming courtyard with outdoor tables.
Shopping
In Florence, there are a lot of fashionable shops where fashionable clothes are sold. These are separate boutiques, and entire galleries. Here you can buy excellent designer things: from elegant leather accessories to solid fur products. All year round in trade practices a system of discounts. In addition, in the city two seasons sales. Summer lasts from July to early September, winter - from January 5 to March 5th.
Tourists are most often brought from Florence a variety of products with stencils of the most famous sights of the city, cheeses, wine, as well as decorations: jewels and jewelry. For jewelry, guests of the city are usually departed to the Ponte Vecchio Bridge. In the local shops and workshops together, pretty inexpensive boulders and solid vintage and modern creations of jewelers are exhibited.
In search of souvenirs you can go to the markets. One of them, San Lorenzo, is located on the Square of the same name. The second is on the square of CHOMPE, north of Santa Croce. On Sundays, local antiquers exhibit their goods here: coins, decorations, paintings, vintage postcards.
Where to stay
Prices for accommodation in Florence are quite high. In the winter season, it is still realistic to find a number of 45 € per day (Hotel 3 *), but the cost is already increased by 30%. Budget option - hostels, here you can stay for 15-20 € per day per person. It is possible to rent a 2-3-bedroom apartment for 100-120 €.
There are in Florence, of course, and luxurious hotels that are located in the old palaces. Among them, "Four Seasons" stands out, located in Palazzo della Gerandsca - one of the Medici residences. Here are magnificent interiors, antique furniture. It is famous for the hotel and its huge park. The cost of living is from 350 €.
In the heart of the city there is "Palazzo Vecchietti". In the building of the XVI century there are only 14 rooms. Here they reign comfort and luxury, the interiors are decorated with old paintings. The rooms have a kitchen, coffee machine, refrigerator, dishes. Breakfasts (included in the price) are simply canceled and pass for a common old table. Accommodation - about 630 € per day.
The "Lux" category also includes "Villa Cora". This historic hotel is located on the Hills of Florence. He was built by Baron Oppenheim in neoclassical style and known for his famous guests. Here is a calm atmosphere, a luxurious park, swimming pool. Prices: from 295 to 830 € per room.
Transport
Despite the fact that Florence is fairly miniature, and in the historic center movement overlap, the transport connection in the city is well developed. Eco-friendly electro-automobiles may come closest to the sights. You will learn them according to original appearance and numbers where C1, C2, C3, D. are present.
In Florence, there is a unified ticketing system for city buses and trams. An integrated ticket for one and a half hours costs 1.20 €. The daily subscription will cost 5 €, three-day - 12 €, weekly - 18 €. Travel tickets are sold in newsstands and tobacco kiosks, bars, offices of the main city transport company ATAF.
Tourists can also purchase a plastic map of Firenze Card. Paying 72 €, you will get the opportunity to visit 67 museums and free movement throughout the city on a tram or bus for 3 days.
The cost of a taxi trip depends on kilometer (0.10 € per 1 km + landing 3-6 €). On the street to stop the taxi is difficult, it is better to call a car by phone or go to the parking lot. Rent a car makes sense only if you want to go around Florence (from 35 € / day).
Recently, blessing became popular. A 15-minute walk for two will cost you at 15 €, 60 minutes - 45 €. Weloriksha chose San Lorenzo Square. You can admire Florence from the deck of the river tram. The boats run on the Arno River from April to October.
How to get
5 km from the center of Florence is located international airport. Amerigo Vespucci. Selfar flights from Russia here are not here. To fly will have to change in Rome or one of the major European cities.
Comfortable buses are regularly sent from the airport to the city. Time in the way - 20 minutes, cost - 5 €. Taxi ride will cost 20 €.
From Rome to Florence, it is convenient to get to the bus. Time on the way - 2.5 hours, cost - 20 €.
Cozy-located in the picturesque banks of the Arno River Italian Florence - the administrative center of the Tuscany region and one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in Europe.
Florence was founded in the 1st century BC. Romans as a settlement for soldiers-veterans of the Roman army and was called in those times of Florence, which translated "blooming". The city was built on the principle of a military camp, and, like most of the ancient Roman settlements, had a rectangular shape and grid crossing each other at the right angle of roads. The intersection of the main streets of the Roman Florence Cardo and Dekumanos were on the site of the modern area of \u200b\u200bthe republic.
Since the city was located on the so-called Cassieway road (the main path from Rome north), as well as taking into account the fertile valley of the Arno River, Florence developed rapidly and soon turned into an important shopping center. In the 3rd century AD. The Roman Emperor Diocletian made Florence the capital of the province of Tushi, and in the 4th century the city became the residence of the bishop.
In the next century, Florence was in the epicenter of the war between the Byzantines and Ostrov: the city fell into decay, the population was greatly reduced. The relative world was established only with the arrival in the 6th century Langobards. In 774, Florence was conquered by Karl the Great and became part of the Duchy of Tuscany.
Middle Ages and New Time
The real era of heyday begins for Florence already in 1000, when Marcgraf Hugo made the city with his residence. From the same period, he has its own history and the so-called "golden age of Florentine Art", which further has a tremendous impact on the development of the entire European culture. The Tuscan dialect subsequently lay down the basis of modern Italian.
In 1115, Florence becomes the capital of the Independent Florentine Republic, is actively constructed and develops, continuing to increase its economic power and influence. Soon, Florence already occupies one of the key positions of the political Olympus medieval Italy, and its Golden Florin is one of the most stable European currencies.
By the 14th century, the economy of Florence reached an unprecedented rise, and the city became the leading center of Italian Renaissance, on the World History Such legendary names like Dante, Leonardo da Vinci, Petrarca, Michelangelo, Machiavelli, Boccaccio, etc. A great influence on the cultural flourishing of Florence was provided by the Dynasty of Medici, centuries patronizing the talented people of their time and headed by the Florentine Republic in 1434.
In 18-19 centuries (after the preventation of the genus Medici), Florence was under the influence of the Austrian crown, and then France. In 1861, Florence as part of Tuscany became part of the Kingdom of Italy. From 1865 to 1871, the city was the capital of Italy and undergoed during this period a number of fundamental changes in his architectural appearance. Unfortunately, in connection with the modernization of the historical center of Florence, many medieval buildings were destroyed.
Today, Florence is an important economic, industrial and cultural center of Italy, and also enters the top 50 recognized capitals of world fashion. An entertaining centuries-old history and an abundance of cultural, architectural and historical monuments every year attracts many tourists from all over the world to Florence. Among the most interesting and iconic attractions of Florence, which must be visited, it is worth noting the Palazzo Vecchio, the Basilica San Miniato, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and, of course, the Uffizi Gallery, which is considered to be one of the best artistic museums in the world.
Florence back in the distant XIV century was considered the second city after Rome, which made the best that could be found in the capital of the Great Roman Empire.
She and in our time is famous for the whole world of attractions, a special romantic atmosphere, which will no longer meet anywhere in the world. It is not at all by chance that it was in Florence that the immortal creations of writers, poets and composers appeared. In this city, Fedor Dostoevsky finished his novel "Idiot", in this city there was a rest and work on the "peak lady" Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky, here for a long time lived the legendary Demidov dynasty. In honor of the Russian patrons, grateful Italians even changed the name of the Villa Medici, which is currently in all tourist prospects as Villa Demidoff.
Basilica Santa Croce
Alas, it's rather difficult to convey to the words of happiness, which does not leave for a minute of each guest of Florence. It is impossible to describe it, just as impossible, how to try in the text to give a clear definition of inspiration. In the Italian city, in which there is a huge number of ancient monuments of history and architecture, you constantly want to create something new, create the world of beautiful on your own hands. "The beautiful Tuscany mirror", the "gentle flower of Italy", "that occurred from the Great Rome and inherited His greatness," here are only a few loud and bright definitions that the Great Renaissance of the Renaissance, the heir of the Knights of the Kolycho Solutati, gives Florence.
Perhaps someone's words judge Solutati may seem too high, and someone may consider that in his description of the Italian city there are too many exaggerations. However, only those people who have never been lucky to visit Florence can be thought so to think. Already after the first visit to this city, the worldview of many travelers is changing. Almost no wonder in the solar and noisy country there is a proverb: "You can visit the majestic and eternal Rome, in the mysterious Venice and in the sparkling Milan, but if you did not see Florence, it means you don't know absolutely nothing about Italy!" It is not by chance that the name "Second Rome" is translated into Russian as "blooming". Many poets devoted their poems to this flowering city, where they drew an endless inspiration. It is impossible to talk about the unique atmosphere of Florence for a long time, but in this material it is necessary to stay in more detail on the history of this Italian city, its attractions and the greatest monuments of architecture.
Santa Maria del Fiore
Florence: Tour in history
Many historians who have surrendered to the chronicle that remained to this day claim that the city called Florence was founded in about 59th BC. Moreover, there is even a version that says that the "blooming" appeared on the world map at the site of a small settlement by order of Guy Julia Caesar himself. True, it is worth noting that this version does not have a solid soil and in many works is considered as an assumption. No accurate data speaking about the participation of Caesar at the base of the "Second Rome" currently exists. The most first mention of Florence can be found only in documents that are dated to the IV century of our era.
It was during this period of time that 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 deserved rest and spent all their time in pleasure places. To veterans in the Roman Empire, always treated with special respect. By the way, the word "veteran" occurred during the reign of Caesar. Only the warrior could get this title, which fought for the honor of the most great in those times of the empire at least 20 (!). Considering the endless wars, hiking against galls, you can make a certain conclusion: the surviving lucky people were not so much. Therefore, the privileges with which they used were practically limitless.
Palazzo Pitty
In 1115, Florence received almost complete independence and began to be called the Communction. Until this time, the city managed to go under the rule of francs, sharp and even Langobards. From the moment of independence, the blooming city began to flourish: already in 1252nd, 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 sales of the treasury of the city, the city grew, the population constantly increased. The blow to the economy and the demographic situation in Florence caused a plague, which in the 1340th year was called "Black Death". From her it was impossible to hide, effective drugs then did not exist. And the poor, and the richest townspeople fell straight on the streets of the once majestic and densely populated city.
The plague spared only a few, but the duration of the city quickly recovered, for the most part, thanks to the visit. After the city of Mora's scary in the history of the city, two famous cathedral are being built in Florence: Palazzo Vecchio and the legendary Santa Maria del Fiore. Already in the 14th century, the "Divine Comedy" of Dante Aguillery appears. Each modern Italian considers this manuscript of the second most important after the Bible. The thing is that the Tuscan dialect is in the "Divine Comedy" and "Born", and if it is extremely accurate - Italian, in which modern residents of the country are spoken. The 14th century can be safely called the most bright and at the same time the most tragic episode in the history of Florence. The Board of the Medici Dynasty, the plague, which took tens of thousands of lives, the flourishing of the Renaissance era and the appearance of two ingenious artists of Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci at once - just a small part of significant events that occurred in the blooming city in the fourteenth century.
Church of all saints
In 1737, the Duke of Lyrozhinsky arrive in Florence to power. During their rule, the city continues to flourish, but the flowering of culture has already remained in the past. In the period of the struggle for freedom, called the name of the risorinamot, the "second city after Rome" from 1865 to 1871nd serves the functions of the capital (!) Italian kingdom. To enormous regret, at this time many monuments of history and architecture were destroyed, and there were strange and, even might not say, pompous buildings uncharacteristic for Florence. The World War II was huge damage to the city: permanent bombings of American and English aviation, as well as the barbaric actions of the fascists, many old buildings and magnificent bridges forever sild the ground.
Another date, which the inhabitants of the Florence remember - on November 4, 1966: during flooding, more than 250 million cubic meters of water from Arno huddled into the city. True, thanks to search and restoration work, in which thousands of Italians and residents from other European countries have voluntarily managed to maintain a huge number of documents, sculptures and monuments. However, just over three million (!) Incidental ancient books and about 14,000 paintings were damaged. This incident has become 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 foliants, frescoes, manuscripts and paintings.
National Central Library of Florence
Florence: blooming city
Nowadays, Florence, along with Rome, Venice and Milan, can be called one of the most visited cities of Italy. A huge number of temples, among which you can allocate Santa Croce, Santa Maria del Fiore, Santa Maria Novella; Gallery Uffizi; Palaces of Vecchio, Pitti, Bargello and Strozzi are only a minor part of the attractions that like a magnet attract hundreds of thousands of tourists from all over the world. It is in the blooming city of Bridges under the names of Vecchio, Santa Trinita, Ponte Alle Grazie can be considered not only a model of engineering thought, but also the most real works of art.
In huge Museums of Florence, you can familiarize yourself with the genuine paintings by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Dante, Galileo Galileo and many others. Interestingly, these geniuses who lived in different periods of time were born and worked in the blooming city. By the way, the historic center of Florence, in which you can almost always meet a huge number of travelers from other countries, is listed on UNESCO World Heritage Site. There is nothing amazing in this: even in many scientific (!) Publications, the Italian city is often called the city in the open-air museum and even the "Italian Athens".
Ponte Vecchio.
Describe all the sights of Florence, it will probably be superfluous. Even with all the desire to fit them in one material is impossible. Each street, every vintage house, temple, museum and bridge has the most interesting story. In Florence, as well as in its suburb, tourists do not produce cameras from hand: I want to take absolutely everything here.
During the time when digital cameras have not yet appeared on the market, the sale of films for cameras brings tangible income to local entrepreneurs. However, in this city "make money" not only on souvenirs, attractions, museums and national cuisine. In sunny, and sometimes rainy Florence, a wide variety of large-scale festivals are held in the season. The most interesting of them are the "Cricket Holiday", "Fireworks holiday and burning wagon (!)". A lot of impressions will give a visit to ... Football games. True, the games are not usual: in June, football players of both teams play against a friend in the costumes in which local residents went to the times of the Middle Ages! In addition, Florence is considered the second capital of the fashion after Milan. In this city, showing new collections from the most famous designers of clothing and exhibitions of fashion regularly. Thousands of guests of the city are in a hurry to visit the "knitwear", "ready-made dress" and "haberdashery".
Triumphal Arch on Freedom Square
Florence: What you need to know the tourist about the blooming city
Before planning a tour to Florence to all travelers who live in the countries of the post-Soviet space, it should be remembered that they will not work direct flight to Florence. Initially, you must fly to Rome, and then the train can be reached by Florence. For a long time I will remember travel by car: picturesque landscapes, the weight of the attractions with which you can find on the way to the flowering city - all this is waiting for a motorist who took care of the green card in advance. By the way, the movement by car in Florence is quite expensive: only parking in the city costs more than 3 euros per hour. In addition, you should not forget that it is not possible to get to any attraction in the historic center, not possible. On the ancient streets has the right to move only public transport. By the way, if you plan to walk through the night city, the car before the onset of twilight is best put on the parking lot. Otherwise, you will have to redeem your vehicle from the penalty area: to park the car at night on the streets in Florence is strictly prohibited.