Tuscany lies in central italy, The area is known for its landscapes, history, artistic legacy, and high culture. It is considered the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance. The terrain is hilly. It was a key breadbasket for ancient Rome. Many of its most important cities lie on the banks of the Arno River.
Florence (Firenze) is the capital of Tuscany. Its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Florence was a center of medieval European trade and one of the wealthiest cities of that era. The city is known for its culture, Renaissance art and architecture, and monuments.
The city's medieval walls were built in the 14th century.
The Great Synagogue of Florence is one of the largest synagogues in south-central Europe. It was built in the Moorish (Sephardic) style between 1874 and 1882 after the Duchy of Tuscany gave the Jewish cmmunity the status of full citizens in 1848.
Cathedral di Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo di Firenze), Giottos's Bell Tower, and the Baptistry.
Franciscan Basilica of Santa Croce, the world's largest Franciscan church, burial place of Michelangelo, Galileo, Machiavelli, Rossini, and many other illustrious Italians. The neo-Gothic marble facade dates from 1857 to 1863. Jewish architect Niccolo Matas worked a prominent Star of David into the composition.
The Palazzo della Signoria (Palazzo Vecchio) ("Old Palace") is the town hall of Florence and overlooks the Piazza della Signoria, which holds a copy fo Michelangelo's "David".
The Piazza della Repubblica was originally the site of the city's forum.
The marble Fountain of Neptune (Fontana del Nettuno) was commissioned by Cosimo I de Medici in 1559.
Ponte Vecchio ("Old Bridge") bridge. This medieval bridge, with its views over the Arno River, is emblematic of the city. It was the only bridge over the Arno in the city until 1218.
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Last modified 17 August 2023