Florence Family Hotels

The Florence Cathedral (Santa Maria del Fiore). It goes without saying that one of the greatest places of interest not only in Florence, but in Italy o the whole is the Florence Cathedral (Santa Maria del Fiore). The building works started in 1296; in 1995 it was completely restored. The word 'fiore' means 'a lily' (by the way, this flower is depicted on the emblem of Florence. The belfry Campanile is situated nearby. The green-and-white marble front of the 13th century looks really fascinating and creates the historically nostalgic atmosphere. If to stay just in front of the cathedral, it seems that the front is going to fall on you. Century after century this grandiose front served as inspiration for many art workers, so it's not surprising that it attracts so many tourists. But the greatest impression leave the ceilings, which were decorated by the greatest painters of those times. The Florence Cathedral (Santa Maria del Fiore), the Campanile and the Baptistery buildings can surely be regarded the true heart of Florence.

In the Gallery of Academy the unique collection of works by Michelangelo (including the statue of David) is kept. But prepare to queue for a long time, before you will get the opportunity to look with your eyes at this collection. Nevertheless it's worth waiting: all the works are the originals.

The Vecchio Palace. The Vecchio Palace is a famous ancient palace of 14th century, located in the very center of Florence. At first it was called Palazzo della Signoria, but in 1559 it was renamed and this name is used until now. Nowadays the sessions of the government of Florence take place there.
Read more: guide to Florence with maps, photos and weather conditions.

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