Honeymoon
in Florence, one of the most elegant cities in Italy as well as the
Renaissance capital of the world. Florence soil has something special for it
is the birthplace of Leonardo DaVinci, Dante, Michelangelo, Fra Angelico and
Machiavelli. Florence is the synonym of art and architecture, where you
would find history and culture in every corner.
Art
& Culture
UNESCO has bestowed the tag of 'capital of arts' on Florence, and rightly
approximate 60% of the world's most important works of art are in Italy,
most hosted by Florence. Presence of great figures related to art in the
history of Florence has ensured that the city has masterpieces of art.
Boccaccio penned his 'Decameron' in Florence. Finishing of the Duomo, with
a massive dome, by artist Brunelleschi marked the beginning of Italian
Renaissance, richest cultural period in Europe. During this period, Florence
achieved so many masterpiece palaces and squares, that the whole town became
a museum. The town showcased string of class idols and fountains. Florence
is the land of some of the biggest churches in Europe including the famous
Duomo of Florence, San Lorenzo, Santa Maria Novella and Santa Croce.
Florence showed the spirit of Renaissance more than any other town.
Florentine
Monuments
Monuments which should be seen while on
honeymoon in Florence are Palazzo Vecchio or the Old
Palace, Pitti Palace, Cathedral, Cupola, Campanile Di Gioto, Basilica of St.
Lorenzo, Medici Chapels and San Miniato Al Monte.
Old Palace is reputed as the most important civil structure in Florence.
Pitti Palace or the Accademy Gallery is counted among the most popular
museums. Cathedral is the fine specimen of Italian Gothic architecture.
Techniques employed to build the massive dome of Cupola have granted special
status. Campanile Di Giotto is known for its important features. Basilica of
San Lorenzo is the oldest church in the city. Medici Chapels is a part of a
monumental complex. San Minianto Al Monte is a fine example of Tuscan
Romanesque architecture.
St. Peters' Dome or Basilica is the mother church of the world's millions
of catholics. Michelangelo was the chief architect of St. Peters' Basilica.
Church of St. Mary Major is known for successful blend of different
architectural styles, most famous of which are mosaics.
Museums
You can dig in heritage of Rome in its museums. Most famous of these is
Roman National Museum showcasing dinosaurs, bugs and arthapods. Other known
museums are Archaeological museum of Ostia, Museum of Roman civilisation,
Ship Museum, National Museum of Eastern Art, and Museum of the Walls.
History
Origins of Florence can be traced back to the Etruscan era of the Roman
empire. The Romans had camped here in 1st century BC, before launching an
attack on Fiesole. The city survived the dark centuries of middle ages with
elan. Golden age of Florentine art began when Margrave Hugo chose Florence
as his residence. In its prosperity, the city was assisted by its own strong
gold currency. Although there was political turmoil in the region, it did
not affect the artistic progress of Florence. Rulers of Florence were great
patrons of art which flourished by leaps and bounds.
Cuisine
Florence cuisine is a treat to one's palate. Most Florentine dishes are
based on meat. A favorite dish is florentina, huge steak of Chianina beef
cooked over hot charcoal. Another favorite dish is sliced bread rounds
topped with chicken or brief. The dishes are cooked in locally available
olive oil. The Florentines like to eat salad of bread and fresh vegetables
in summer. Exotic tastes of ice cream like garlic and watermelon are
available in the city. Restaurnats, both international brand and local,
abound in Florence and you can pick any of them according to your
preferences.
