To continue our exploration of Italy, we decided to take a train from Rome to Florence. During this two hour ride, we passed the sunflower fields of Tuscany, which are just as gorgeous as everyone says. Because it was August (high season for these beautiful flowers), their glorious yellow blossoms spread as far as we could see and we greatly enjoyed the view from our train window. It was a very lovely sight and a wonderful welcome to the amazing city of Florence. 
Florence was the focal point of business in Europe during the Medieval era, and is now considered the origin of the Renaissance movement. Because of Florence’s influence in the arts, Italian came to be known as the language of culture. The historic center of the city is full of monuments, art, and architectural masterpieces. As such, it is now a World Heritage site. 
There are many renowned museums to enjoy here and we were able to experience most of them during our stay. One of the most wonderful museums is the Uffizi Gallery. Located near the fountain of Neptune in the Piazza della Signoria, it exhibits the Birth of Venus by Botticelli. Created in the 1840’s, the Birth of Venus portrays the goddess Venus approaching the shore after her creation. Because of its theme from the classical age, as well as the size and importance of the female figure, this painting is considered an icon of the Italian Renaissance. 
Another one of our favorite museums was the Accademia Gallery, which proudly displays the world-renowned David by Michelangelo. This marble statue depicts the theological hero David after his victory over the giant Goliath, and is a prime example of Renaissance art. Because of its outstanding representation on the subject, it was placed in honor in the center of Florence after its unveiling. Created from 1501 to 1504, this statue stands seventeen feet tall! We were awestruck by its massive size and delicate details, and we couldn’t help but contemplate how such a powerful piece could be created. Our respect for Michelangelo, and his work, reached new heights that day. 
Towards the end of our time in Florence, we spent a few hours experiencing the spectacular Basilica di Santa Croce. Known as the Temple of the Italian Glories, it safeguards the tombs of some of the most famous artists in history, including Michelangelo, Galileo, Machiavelli, and Dante, as well as many other poets, philosophers, and composers. Interestingly, even though the building of this Franciscan church began in 1294, the construction wasn’t finished until almost a century later in 1385. Eventually it became a tradition for the most notable Italians to be buried within the church. And so, for five hundred years, monuments were placed inside, a means of honoring the great artists of the world. As we approached, we were mesmerized by its cream colored symmetrical exterior. Knowing the inside would be just as breathtaking, we entered the dwelling with great excitement. It’s immense interior is large and open, and has tomb slabs set into the floor. Built in the shape of the Egyptian cross, it has tall stained glass windows that adorn the walls. The whole church is full of wonderful paintings and sculptures that decorate each tomb. It’s truly incredible. Before we left, we lit a candle in honor of all the artists, past and present, all of whom have made our world a more beautiful place.
Since our love of art, architecture, and history is all encompassing, we also toured the Palazzo Pitti, which was a palace bought by the Medici family in 1549. During the Renaissance, this particular family owned the Medici Bank, which was one of Europe’s most influential banks at the time. Because of this, the Medici family was the most powerful household in the city and ruled at different times throughout Florence’s history. The palace itself is a trademark of the Medici Family and shows not only their power during this time period, but also their love of art. The grand entrance and large rooms were filled from floor to ceiling with the finest furnishings that money could buy. During the height of the Renaissance, the palace became the permanent residence of the family and a way to exhibit their immense art collection. During our tour within its vast depths, the Royal Apartments and the Paladine Galleries left us breathless. Most of the paintings were created by some of the finest masters of the time: Raphael, Titian, and Caravaggio. It is truly spectacular.
After we had enjoyed the Palazzo Pitti, we continued wandering about the city and eventually came across the Ponte Vecchio. The Ponte Vecchio is an arched stone bridge that was constructed during medieval times and is known for the many shops that sell beautiful jewelry and fine art. It also has a magnificent view of the Arno River and the city beyond. Since we visited it at the end of the day, we were able to see the sun set. The soft yellow, orange, and red hues played over the water, spreading in every direction across the everlasting metropolis of Florence. It was a perfect ending to a perfect day. 
Florence is full of life, history, and culture, and we’re so glad we made the time to immerse ourselves within its depths. For anyone who is a lover of the Renaissance, we recommend stopping in this magnificent city for a few days. It will give you a new appreciation for the arts. It most certainly did for us. 
Overall, Italy is glorious, richly adorned, and full of historical events. Of all the traveling we’ve done thus far, this is one of our most favorite countries and we fully intend on returning soon! 😀
For additional photos, please see:
– Italy 2018/2019: Rome
– Italy 2019: The Vatican
– Italy 2019: Naples
– Italy 2019: Pompeii
For more information about this country, please see our other articles:
– Italy 2018/2019: Rome – Part 1
– Italy 2018/2019: Rome – Part 2
– Italy 2019: Naples & Pompeii