A cultural journey through Florence
A cultural journey through Florence
Take a video tour of Florence.
Contunico © ZDF Studios GmbH, Mainz
Transcript
Florence - in the middle of Tuscany on the Arno River lies one of Europe's most beautiful cities, one brimming with culture and art. One thing is true, beauty has always played a central role here. But lets start with the must-see sights. The Dome of Florence in the city center. Ghiberti's gilded Gates of Paradise and the cathedral's multi-colored marble façade draw tourists in droves. And on Piazza della Signoria they are afforded the fantastic opportunity to admire an exact replica of Michelangelo's David. The original is in the Accademia Gallery. This square breathes history, even if the tourists do make the air a bit thick now and then.
Because large portions of the old city are free of car traffic, it is a joy to stroll through it and take in the sights. If you get that expected craving for something ice-cold, don't hesitate to pop into one of the many ice cream shops. Florentine gelato is a delicacy to be relished, no matter where you get it.
Ponte Vecchio is the oldest and most famous bridge in Florence. It was built in 1345. This bridge over the Arno River houses only jewellers, and that is due to a tradition that goes back to the 16th century. At that time it was home to butchers and tanneries. The stench became so unbearable that those businesses were driven from the bridge to make room for glamorous jewellery shops, for, as we all know, money doesn't stink.
Exiting Ponte Vecchio to the south, one enters a quarter that offers an experience that most reflects the true character of Florence. Nothing but narrow alleys and artists' studios for as far as the eye can see. And if you see this man in front of his studio, don't hesitate to accompany him inside. Raffaello is a sixth generation sculptor of the family Romanelli. In this one-time church that was built in the 14th century time seems to be frozen.
For centuries sculptures hewn here have been destined for public squares and private individuals in and around Florence. Pieces start at 200 euros. But if you don't buy anything, the Romanelli studio is still a good place to marvel at wonderful works of art. Florence is a compact city and you can get around most places on foot. But you'd best take a taxi to visit San Miniato al Monte church. The best time to visit is at sunset. From here you'll get a gorgeous view of the city. The perfect place to surrender your heart to Tuscany and the city of Florence.
Because large portions of the old city are free of car traffic, it is a joy to stroll through it and take in the sights. If you get that expected craving for something ice-cold, don't hesitate to pop into one of the many ice cream shops. Florentine gelato is a delicacy to be relished, no matter where you get it.
Ponte Vecchio is the oldest and most famous bridge in Florence. It was built in 1345. This bridge over the Arno River houses only jewellers, and that is due to a tradition that goes back to the 16th century. At that time it was home to butchers and tanneries. The stench became so unbearable that those businesses were driven from the bridge to make room for glamorous jewellery shops, for, as we all know, money doesn't stink.
Exiting Ponte Vecchio to the south, one enters a quarter that offers an experience that most reflects the true character of Florence. Nothing but narrow alleys and artists' studios for as far as the eye can see. And if you see this man in front of his studio, don't hesitate to accompany him inside. Raffaello is a sixth generation sculptor of the family Romanelli. In this one-time church that was built in the 14th century time seems to be frozen.
For centuries sculptures hewn here have been destined for public squares and private individuals in and around Florence. Pieces start at 200 euros. But if you don't buy anything, the Romanelli studio is still a good place to marvel at wonderful works of art. Florence is a compact city and you can get around most places on foot. But you'd best take a taxi to visit San Miniato al Monte church. The best time to visit is at sunset. From here you'll get a gorgeous view of the city. The perfect place to surrender your heart to Tuscany and the city of Florence.