It was during the nineteenth century that the rest of Europe (and America too) rediscovered Florence, and it quickly became an essential stopping point on the Grand Tour of Europe, for artists and moneyed toffs alike. Stendahl, the Brownings and EM Forster all rhapsodised the beauty of the Tuscan city, where great works of art and architecture seemed to appear round every corner.
So what does Florence (Firenze) hold for the visitor today? Florence has its dramatic signature buildings to be sure: Santa Maria Novella cathedral; the remarkable Ponte Vecchio, with shops crammed onto the medieval bridge over the river; and San Miniato al Monte, which shimmers irresistibly on the hills behind the town. But perhaps the real beauty of Florence lies in the treasures within its buildings. In Venice the city itself is the most dramatic thing; in Rome one has the Colosseum, the Forum and the Vatican City. But it is within galleries, museums and chapels such as the Bargello, the Museo dell Opera del Duomo, of Santa Croce and the Cappella dei Pazzi (to name a few among dozens) that the treasure lies. Florence, it has been said, has more artistic treasures than the rest of Europe combined.
The Roman settlement of Florentia was built in 59BC, but it is as a medieval town that we really know Florence. More specifically, this city was to become the cradle of the great artistic movement that became the Renaissance. Money was at its root. The enormous wealth generated by trading families such as the Medici created a whole new class which demanded portraits, music, fine homes and chapels.
Today though, Florence is firmly back on the map. Sometimes the crowds can become unbearable, and if you can make your visit outside the core tourist months you'll be grateful. For with fine restaurants, good shopping, some marvellous hotels and some of Italy's best food, this is an essential stop on your own Grand Tour of Italy.
To the left you'll find a selection of Florence hotels, just to whet your appetite.
See also Florence hotels (full listings) and our Florence hotel map.
