There’s something about the energy of Florence, Italy that just grabs you. Perhaps it’s the feeling of bewilderment that takes hold of you as you navigate the streets and explore the maze of alleyways that run up and down Firenze. One things for sure though — if you only have a few days to explore the city, but you have no idea where to go — you will become overwhelmed and may end up missing out on some of the best sites in Florence. So I’ve decided to share with you my five favorite things to do!
SANTA CROCE
SANTA CROCE was founded in 1294 and is boasted as being one of the finest Gothic churches in Italy. It houses countless masterpieces including paintings of 14th century Florentine design including Gaddi’s The Tree of the Cross and The Last Supper and many 15th century monumental masterpieces. The tomb of Michelangelo is also in Santa Croce. Here I am in front of it:
IL GALLERIA DEGLI UFFIZI
The Uffizi museum is home to countless works of art, which are displayed in chronological order, starting with pieces from as far back as the 13th century. Some of the most widely known paintings include Botticelli’s Birth of Venus and Primavera — which are so enormous and intricately rendered that one could spend a solid hour observing the beauty of them. I wasn’t allowed to use my camera or video camera while I was in there (I think that I wasn’t even supposed to take it in, but I turned it off and kept it in my bag!), but I’ve included Botticelli’s Birth of Venus for your viewing pleasure:
THE BAPISTRY
The Battistero, or Florence Baptistry, built between 1059 and 1158, it is one of the oldest buildings in the city of Florence. The Baptistery is most known for its sets of three doors which adorn the building’s octagonal shape. The Gates of Paradise are amazing! Here I am standing in front of them:
IL DUOMO
The Duomo commands the attention of passerby’s. The Duomo is a colossal masterpiece which took over six centuries to complete and is topped off by a massive dome that was designed by Italian architect Filippo Brunelleschi. The first time I saw this massive structure, I yelled “OH MY GOD!” I couldn’t believe how huge and amazing it was. I still can’t. If you’re in Florence, you’re sure to see at least the outside of the Duomo whether you plan to or not. You just can’t miss it.
LAST, BUT NOT LEAST
You must, must MUST have some gelato while in Italy– but while in Florence, you really should stop by Grom — they have thee best gelato around. And if you can– try to eat it AT LEAST once everyday while you’re in Florence.
Desiré Writes 