Artsy travelers find a second home in Florence where the great masters of Renaissance and Baroque art found inspiration and set up world famous Art Institutes. Florence, the ‘Cradle of the Renaissance’ and capital of Tuscany with its graceful buildings, cobblestoned streets, the majestic Cathedral, with its Brunelleschi designed dome, and Palazzo della Signoria, is a feast for the eyes.
The city enjoys scenic gardens, the romantic river Arno, and a historic quarter brimming with classic architecture. Inside those buildings, even more beauty awaits, from Michelangelo’s David showcased at the Academy Gallery to great masterpieces by Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Titian on display at the Uffizi Gallery.
Pitti Palace, former residence of the Grand Dukes of Tuscany, with its immense art gallery is definitely worth a visit. The whole of Florence’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and you may not get around to seeing it all. It’s worth spending at least 4 full days exploring this beautiful city. Ponte Vecchio – the Old Bridge crosses the Arno River, connecting the northern part of the city with the Oltrarno (other side of the Arno) district, famous for its abundant artisan shops. The city's artisans are still active, many still working in the most traditional of ways, while others have modernized their crafts to suit contemporary ways.
A morning or late afternoon wander to this area is an inspiring way to experience how the Renaissance backbone of the city's culture has influenced today's artists and artisans.
