![]() ![]() Shops have existed on the bridge since its construction in the 14th century, but for a period of time it was rented exclusively to the ‘Guild of Butchers’… and one can imagine how this would not have made Ponte Vecchio or the Arno a very enticing olfactory experience.įrom the point of view of, well, viewpoints, there are several spots along Ponte Vecchio from which the city will unfold, as well as angles that take in the bridge itself: There’s actually an old line amongst locals to describe any woman wearing jewllerly which is a tad too ostentatious as ‘carrying more gold than the Ponte Vecchio’. The main attraction on the river Arno is the three-arch Ponte Vecchio (‘old bridge’), a real symbol of the city and the only Florentine bridge to survive World War 2 bombing.Ĭrossing the river at its narrowest point, it feels more like a street than a bridge, lined as it is with jewellery shops and goldsmiths stacked high and tight on both sides. Definitely one to add to your list in spring when the roses are in bloom! The garden is free to visit, and the entrance - a small gate - can be found as you make up Viale Giuseppe Poggi. Top tip // Located just below Piazzale Michelangelo, the pretty little Rose Garden ( here on Google Maps) has provided a floral scented viewpoint over Florence since 1865 (albeit a little more obstructed than the Piazzale above). Alternatively, if you’re in a bit of a rush or not in the best of fitness, you can take bus number 12 from Boboli Gardens, or 13 from Ponte Niccolò. You can also follow the road up from Porta San Miniato ( Google Maps). Do note that this is quite a hard slog even during the cooler hours of the day. How to Get There | The quickest way to access Piazzale Michelangelo is via steep stairs from Piazza Giuseppe Poggi in Oltr’Arno (across the river from Florence’s main attractions). If you want to grab a good spot on the stairs for yourself or your photography, then head up a little earlier than the others and settle in. There are a few people selling snacks and souvenirs too. ![]() Friends bring drinks, lovers bring romance, and buskers bring music. This isn’t a hidden gem however, and will draw large crowds of locals and travellers each evening, especially on a balmy summer’s one. In the background, the Tuscan hills turn from wine to shadow as the sun bids its final salutation.įor us, it’s the best view in Florence and of Florence. The Duomo and Palazzo Vecchio point to the heavens, gracefully imposing themsevles over terracotta rooftops and the cityscape. ![]() The four bridges reach out over a Arno flowing gold. ![]() Here however, the masses turn their backs on him. One of several testaments to the artist, this also displays the city’s second replica of David. Slightly tipsy from a few stiff Spritzes, we ambled up the steep stairways from Piazza Giuseppe Poggi in the early evening toward Piazzale Michelangelo. Despite this major flaw in Cambio’s design, the Duomo’s construction proceeded.This was the place and the moment which made us fall hard for Florence itself. The concept of enclosing the rooftop of the Duomo was too advanced for the late 13th century because Florentines lacked the technology to construct a dome of that diameter. Other famous landmarks of his include monuments in Rome, Perugia, and, most importantly, Florence.Īlthough Cambio began construction in 1296, the completion of the Duomo wouldn’t be seen for over 140 years. He trained with Nicola Pisano to master architectural techniques until he began his own work. Remains from the Santa Reparata are visible in the crypt of the Duomo.Īt the time, Cambio was well-known in Siena for his contribution to the marble pulpit in their cathedral. Arnolfo di Cambio, the Duomo’s designer, began construction on September 8, 1296, when he laid the first panel of white marble with accents of green and red. The replacement, however, would emphasise the expansion of Florence’s prominence throughout Italy. It had provided the city with centuries of religious practice and historical support. Until 1412, Florence’s main cathedral was the Santa Reparata. The History of the Construction of the Duomo ![]()
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