| The Duomo cathedral, the third largest in Europe, is a spectacular
example of Gothic and Romanesque architecture. Located on the west side of the duomo
square, it's considered both a Temple of Faith and Temple of Art and much of the original art still remains within.
By climbing the long staircases, you can view all of Milan and on a clear, sunny day, even
the Alps. It is a final tribute to the five centuries of architects, construction workers, engineers and
everyday citizens who contributed to the Duomo's construction.
Once inside the cavernous cathedral, you'll see that the church is shaped
like an old Latin cross that is split into five large naves, separated by voluminous pillars. The pillars are framed by intricate, delicate
stained glass windows, which send long, darkly-colored rays of light across the hard marble floors. Above the south door, which is known as
the Door of the Canoniei, there is a beautiful mosaic consisting of 3 stained glass windows. Around the north door, which is known as the
Door of the Mandorla, there are 20 panels which illustrate the Life of Christ. The east door contains a portrait of Ghiberti. Michaelangelo
once proclaimed this door, the door to paradise.
If you're short on time or just want to make sure you get to see the highlights of the cathedral, be sure to explore the central nave. Upon
entering, you'll find two wooden statues on each side of the fresco, illustrating the "Martyrdom of St. Sebastiano" by Benozzo Gozzoli. The
statues were actually carved by Jacopo della Quercia. Between the first two arches on the upper portion of the nave you'll find frescoes by
Taddeo di Bartolo depicting "The Last Judgment." Down farther and to the right, you'll see the "Chapel of St. Fina," dating back to 1468, now
surrounded by a breathtaking altar by Benedetto da Maiano. It is also surrounded by frescoes by Domenico Ghirlandio, with "St. Gregorio
foretelling St. Fina of her approaching death" on the right and "Her Funeral Rites" to the left. It is considered the most precious piece of
artwork in the Duomo, which leads to a great deal of tourist traffic.
-- Cat Hopkins
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The Duomo
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The Giotto Baptistery
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Hi there! Mick Foley here, in (dramatic pause) FLORENCE,
ITALY! That's right, the Hardcore Legend has come to the capital of the
Renaissance, and one thing I've learned here in Florence, besides that the
Florentines LOVE the World Wrestling Federation, is how much culture the
city has.
Let's take a look at the Baptistery. Talk about some nice doors! I can just imagine being slammed
head-first into the set on the east side. OUCH! This particular set of doors was described by Michelangelo as "worthy of Paradise." The
description stuck, just like thumbtacks in my neck at No Way Out, and the doors became known as "The Gates of Paradise".
The bronze doors were crafted over a period of 27 years, from 1425 to 1452, by acclaimed
Renaissance bronze artist Lorenzo Ghiberti. The doors are made of five panels each, with statuettes of religious figures adorning the sides of
the panels. Each panel contains several Biblical scenes, a feat made possible by using depth. Hey, I know all about depth. For instance,
there's a lot of depth between me and the Rock. So much depth, in fact, that... oh, wait, I forgot. It doesn't matter how much depth!
Originally, Ghiberti and another man, Brunelleschi, vied for the commission of another set of doors, which led to the commission of the
"Gates of Paradise". Their rivalry reminds me of the one between myself and that dastardly Hunter Hearst
Helmsley, the Game-uh. Ghiberti, like myself, won out in the end. But enough about me. The "Gates of
Paradise" are just one of the many wonders to be found in Florence, so don't dawdle. Go out and see them, and have a nice day!
-- Jay Kubica > wrestling fan
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| San Lorenzo was built in the early Renaissance by Brunelleschi, and was constructed from 1421 until
the 1460's. San Lorenzo has two Medici Chapels. On of them is particularly remarkable because it
was built by Michelangelo. This is called the New Sacristy. This is the only place where
Michelangelo's architecture and sculpture are in the same place. The first chapel has magnificent architecture and a vast array of sculptures. It also contains
mosaics formed from very smooth precious stones.
-- Jennifer Marcoux
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San Lorenzo
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The Bargello
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The Bargello is one of the oldest buildings in Florence, with construction commencing around the
year 1255. It was originally the headquarters of the Capitano del Popolo, in the sixteenth century it
became the residence of the Bargello, or head of police, from which it gets its name. During the
eighteenth century it was converted into a prison, and finally in the mid-nineteenth century it was
made a National Museum, which it still is today. Throughout its history the Bargello was the site of many important Florentine events. It was here
that the Council of the Hundred met, of which Dante was a part. There were numerous fires, sieges,
and executions, including that of Baroncelli, who was involved in the Pazzi conspiracy against the
Medici.
The Bargello is now home to much of Florence's great sculptures. It contains Donatello's Youthful
David, the St. George, and David in Bronze. It is also here that one can find the panels submitted by
Lorenzeo Ghiberti and Filippo Brunelleschi for the Baptistery Doors competition of 1401. Among other works of art on display are
fifteenth and sixteenth century sculptures from Michelangelo and Cellini among others and the Medici collection of medals can also be
found here.
-- Sean Marshall
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| The Brancacci Chapel was erected in 1336 at the request of Antonio
Brancacci. The frescoes on the walls were then commissioned in 1422 by Felice Brancacci, who was not only a patron of the Brancacci Chapel but
also an important Florentine political figure (and rich silk merchant) in the early 1400s.
The frescoes depict scenes from the life of Saint Peter and Original Sin.
These paintings were done mainly by Masolino and Masaccio, however, they were not fully completed until 1485 by Filippino Lippi. The frescos of the
Brancacci Chapel are considered to be the "incunabula of Renaissance painting" and served as a source of inspiration to artists for over a
century.
-- Janet Samancioglu
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Santa Maria del Carmine
(Brancacci Chapel)
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Santa Croce
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The beauty of Italy is not only marked by the amazing natural
elements, but in the man-made structures as well. The Italian Renaissance marked the beginning of an artistic revival for nearly all
Italians, and we can see the many fruits of their labor. The Basilica of Santa Croce is one
such marvel. Began in 1294, by Arnolfo di Cambrio, it was not finished until 1442! One hundred and forty-eight years of effort went into this
wonder of a church, and you can tell just standing in front of it. The façade
was actually redone in the 19th century by Nicholo Matas. It is believed he
was inspired by the designs of Cronaca. The interior walls display some of the finest painting in the world,
by well known Renaissance Painters. Such artists as Giotto Taddeo Gaddi, and Agnolo Gaddi did the many chapels. There are also wonderful
sculptures by Donatello, Andrea della Robbia, and Benedetto da Maiano. The church is doubly famous, for on top of the architectural and artistic
value, it is also a tomb for many famous Italians, such as Michelangelo, and the political philosopher Machiavelli. This is definitely a must see
when touring Italy. Do not deprive yourself! Go now…
-- Zach West |
This Gothic style church was built on the site of a tenth century oratory. The church is named for the oratory on
which it was built, the oratory bore the name Saint Maria delle Vigne. Construction on the church started in 1246.
Two Dominican friars, Sisto da Firenze and Ristoro da Campi, were in charge of planning for the new church. The
church was completed in the middle of the 14th century. In 1456, the Rucellai family commissioned Leon Battista
Alberti to remodel the facade of the church. Alberti is responsible for the
magnificent portal on the facade of the church.
However, the exterior of the church is not the only impressive part of the building. The interior houses some
wonderful masterpieces. There are several rooms and chapels in the church
that contain wonderful works of art. In one chapel, there is a rendition of the Last
Judgment on the back wall, Hell on the right and Paradise on the left.
These renditions were done by Nardo di Cione. The stories of John the Baptist and the Madonna are within the
church. If you are ever in Florence the Santa Maria Novella is a must see. It is home to some of the most amazing
art in the world.
--Marianne Baldwin
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Santa Maria Novella
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Piazza della Signoria
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From its museums to historic palaces, the Piazza della Signoria is a
reflection of Florence's rich history. Over half a century ago, this sect of Florence was the "hub of civic life." It was a meeting place for
the city's government officials during the Signoria of the Medici. The reign of the Medici lasted for nearly three centuries. During the peak
of their reign, in the 15th century, artists like Botticelli, Donatello, Michaelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci were brought
to this court where their art and influence may still be viewed today. Though this section is no longer the political center of Florence,
it still has many points of interest, like the beautiful sculptures and architecture that has made this city a World tourist attraction. A
visit to the Piazza would not be complete with out a stop at the Uffizi Gallery. This
gallery holds on of the most famous collections in the world, boasting artists like
Botticelli and da Vinci. There is another museum, in front of the Palazzo Vecchio which is a collection of "open
air" sculptures. It would be a travesty not to stop and enjoy the artistic masterpieces that Florence offers.
-- Lisa Hicks
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| The Palazzo Vecchio is considered the Old Palace of Florence to distinguish
from the "new" palace, the Palazzo Pitti. The Palazzo Vecchio was considered to be
the political representative of Florence. The Palazzo is credited to Arnolfo di Cambio, who started the work on the Palazzo in 1299. The
"Priori" lived in the palace while they served their term in office. The Palazzo went through many changes. It was enlarged in 1343 for the Duke of
Athens, in 1495 and in 1511. The interior was modified by Vasari, between
1540 and 1543 and by Buontalenti between 1588 and 1592. The grand staircase
by Vasari leads to the Salone dei Cinquecento, which holds other sculptures,
also on this floor is the small study of Francesco I Medici, all done by
Vasari. The studio has works from the Florentine artists of the late sixteenth century. The second floor has the Sala dei Gigli, with lilies
decorating the walls and ceiling.
The Palazzo Vecchio was known for its political importance up until 1565,
then the Palazzo Pitti was built and the Medici family moved into that palace, making that palace the political representative. Now things have
changed and the Palazzo Vecchio is the seat of the municipal government, and
because of this the grand palace is partially open to the public.
-- Marlon Furlongue
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Palazzo Vecchio
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Palazzo Medici
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While traveling to the city of Florence, be sure to stop by the Palazzo
Medici for all your banking needs. Need travelers’ checks? Want to cash in
those chips? Palazzo Medici is the place to go; except only if you want to
cash in your chips with God. The Chapel is the only part still intact. Built between 1444 and 1464, Palazzo Medici is one of the finest
Renaissance places in Florence. The interior of the Palazzo Medici is based
around an open central courtyard which is surrounded by an arcade at ground
level. The front of the building serves as the main entrance, whilst at the
rear there lies a small walled garden. The garden is still maintained today.
Opening Hours: Chapel: 9:00 - 12:45; 15:00 - 17:45 Daily. Closed on Holidays.
-- Renee Durette
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| Looking for culture, beauty, and history? Want to learn about the culture in Florence Italy during the 1700’s and 1800’s? The
Palazzo Pitti is the perfect place to do so. It houses some of the most important museums in Florence. Where else could you find
five different museums set in beautiful palace with even more beautiful grounds?
It’s open Tuesday through Sunday 9:00 am to 2:00 p.m. On the first floor is the Palatine Gallery which contains paintings from the nineteenth and twentieth century. On the ground
floor the Silver Museum ("degli Argenti") can be found. This contains many precious metals and stones as well as fine china. The
Gallery of Modern Art is on the top floor. Outside the palace are the magnificent Boboli gardens which reflects the style of the
renaissance period. On the upper slopes of the Boboli gardens is the Porcelain Museum, as well as the Costume Gallery.
This beautiful palace was originally built for Luca Pitti, but was unfinished when he died. Eleonora of Toledo then bought the
palace. >From that point on it housed the grand ducal family. By 1621, after many alterations, the Pitti took on the shape that it is
today. The interior of the palace was decorated by Giovanni da San Giovanni, Pietro da Cortona, il Volterrano and Anton
Domenico Gabbiani during the seventeenth century. The palace housed the duke and his heir as well as an extensive palace
library. This is sure to be one place you will never forget. Your stay in Florence would not be complete without seeing this
magnificent place.
-- Amber Davis |
Palazzo Pitti
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Palazzo Corsini
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What can I say about the Palazzo Corsini? Other than being situated in the middle of the city of Florence, it is also located near the Santa Maria Novella railway station and the most elegant hotels in the area. The current Palazzo that stands today started to be built in 1685 and the structure was painted between 1692 and 1700. The painting is one of the most intense and happy moments in Florentine painting.
The Palazzo Corsini once held the likeness of Sant' Andrea and Pope Clement XII. It is renown for its continuous presence in the artistic, cultural, and civil history with its members who were always at the forefront as merchants, bankers, collectors, and patrons. The Palazzo was built so well so as to preserve and protect it from the ravages of time, natural forces, and neglect. The house continues to strive today with the voices of the past.
The main parts of the Palazzo Corsini are the Aurora Gallery, the Ballroom, II Salone, and the Lo Scalone. May I suggest that if you are to ever visit Florence, you go to this magnificent house so you can experience the beauty as well. I know that I plan on going there when I get the chance.
-- Lisa Cronauer |
| In the beautiful city of Florence, lies a monument that is a classic. It is the Ponte Vecchio, or the old bridge. This bridge
spans the narrowest part of the river, and has been around since Roman times. This bridge dates back to 1345. It doubles as a shopping
center full of gold, silver, and jewelry shops. The shops have been around since 1592.
There used to be butchers in the bridge until the Medici grand duke kicked them out because of the foul odor. He did this to make the
walk across the bridge more pleasant. It is the most exclusive shopping center in Florence. The shops are only open during the day.
--Greg Clifton |
Ponte Vecchio]
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The Uffizi
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No trip to Florence is complete without a visit to the Uffizi. They are open
Tuesday to Friday, and Sunday 8:30am to 7:00pm, and Saturday 8:30am to 10:00pm. It’s best to go on a day when there is a temporary exposition. The
exposition room is open the same hours as the main gallery, but when there
is no temporary exposition it is open to researchers only.
The Uffizi, the famous Italian art museum in Florence, was originally built
as the offices for the judiciary and referred to as the Uffizi Palace. In 1574, the top floor was converted into a storage area for the Medici
family’s art. The gallery was expanded in the 17th century, and in the 18th
century the Uffizi was given museum status, and became, Galleria Degli
Uffizi. The grand duke Leopold I set it up, and opened it up to the public
in 1769. Today, the museum houses the finest collection of Italian Renaissance painting, especially the Florentine works. It also has antiques,
sculptures, and many drawings and prints.
-- Annette Carey |
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