Florence Information

Since early in the 19th century Florence (or Firenze) has been regarded as Italy's most beautiful city. Close up, however, it is one of Italy's most atmospheric and pleasant, retaining a strong resemblance to the small late-medieval centre that contributed to the cultural and political development of Europe. It is home to many wonderful historic buildings such as Florence's signature building, the Duomo.

The Duomo Cathedral dates back to the 13th century, when it was decided a new cathedral was required to showcase the wealth of the city and, more importantly, put the Pisans and the Sienese in their place. Arnolfo di Cambio was entrusted with the project in 1294, but he died just eight years later. By 1412 everything was in place to bear the massive dome di Cambio had envisaged as the building's crown. The completion of the Dome was marked on March 25, 1436 - Annunciation Day, and the Florentine New Year - by papal consecration of the cathedral.

The Santa Croce is a wonderful Gothic basilica containing superb frescoes by Giotto and others, with tranquil cloisters adjoining. The world's greatest collection of Italian Renaissance paintings is housed in the Uffizi.

The church of Santa Maria Novella is one of the city's most gorgeous buildings and inside it has yet more fabulous Renaissance frescoes, by Uccello, Ghirlandaio and others.