FLORENCE, CITY OF THE LILY

"[Sunset] overwhelms Florence with tides of color that make all the sharp lines dim and faint and turn the solid city to a city of dreams."

~Mark Twain

Florence is a beautiful city with artistic treasures everywhere you look. It is the home of the Renaissance and one must pace oneself, for trying to take in all that is Florence will leave you with an art hangover. Luckily, I know the cure for such a malady--sitting in a cafe, watching the world go by while sipping a fortifying glass of chianti.

THE ARNO AND THE PONTE VECCHIO

The Ponte Vecchio was built in 1345 to replace an earlier bridge that was sept away by flood. In the XIV century, the shops on the bridge belonged to the Woolmakers' Guild, butchers, green grocers and blacksmiths. However, in XVI century, Grand Duke Ferdinando I ordered that the shops be taken over by gold and silversmiths and jewelers. The bridge has been devoted to these trades ever since.

Views along the Arno

Ponte Vecchio (Old Bridge)

The shops

Ponte Vecchio

View from the Arno

NEXT - FLORENCE PART 2