Florence

The Cradle of the Renaissance

The Renaissance was a rebirth of ancient Green and Roman styles. The church controlled so much of the political, economic and intellectual life of Europe that it gathered the best minds, wealthiest men and most powerful leaders unto itself in Rome. The Renaissance era started from 14th century until 17th century.

Florence is one of the most significant cities from the Renaissance in Italy.  It was because Florence was an independent republic whereby it focused on urban society, individuality and rebirth of learning literature, art and culture. Today, Florence is well preserved as a Renaissance City with the wealth of art, architecture and monuments.

The Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore or Saint Mary of the Flower or Duomo Cathedral of Florence

The Duomo is the home church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Florence. It is one of the greatest masterpieces for Gothic art and Italian Renaissance. 

The Last Judgement was painted on the underside of the dome.

Stained glass windows

Piazza del Duomo

Palazza Vecchio is the town hall of Florence. It overlooks the Piazza della Signoria where Michaelangelo's David statue stands and the gallery of statues in the adjacent Loggia dei Lanzi.

Michelangelo's David statue

Hercules and Cacus

Perseus with the head of Medusa, 16th century

Piazza della Signoria

Basilica of Santa Croce