A Love Letter to Florence

Florence, otherwise known as Firenze, is an epicenter Mark Twain once coined as the “city of dreams” known for its art, history and culture. Home to the Duomo, the David and the Ponte Vecchio, Florence’s glory lies in its history. The architecture is meticulous and detailed. The city is stamped with the people who built it. Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Dante, Machiavelli, Galileo, and the Medici family are some of the iconic people that have given Florence its profound beauty.

The Toscana (Tuscan) regione (region) is known for their wine and traditional cuisine, with Tuscany famous for its Sangiovese-based dry red wines. Chianti, Florence’s most famous wine, began production 8 centuries ago. Each Italian city carries with it its own distinct cuisine passed down from generations with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The Florentine cuisine is sourced from the countryside that surrounds the city. Florentine staples include steak, pasta, unsalted bread and potent olive oil. In medieval Florence, salt was taxed too high which meant bakers left it out. While the bread may seem bland, Florentines are accustomed to dipping the bread in a combination of tangy balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil. The cuisine was originally based on cheap ingredients with recipes that were simple yet packed with depth and flavor.

Florence is surrounded by hills that are covered with villas, farms and vineyards. In contrast, the city’s bubbly and electric center consists of narrow cobblestone streets, detailed architecture and a river flowing right along the city. As one of the largest tourist attractions, visitors are around every corner. The streets are made narrow through outdoor seating. As you walk around your eyes glaze over the bright orange-filled glasses of Aperol Spritz and the potent smell of truffle and parmigiana reggiano (parmesan). Every corner you stumble upon offers pastries, cappuccinos, gelato or paninis. Each shop owner welcomes you in with a friendly “Caio”. The city has a warmth to it, a sense of familiarity– even as a visitor it’s comfortable. Amidst the narrow cobblestone streets that can all blend together, you’re bound to find your way. Without directions, the Duomo acts as a map as it is the most prominent landmark of the Florentine skyline.

Piazza del Duomo, meaning “the Dome,” is Florence's most identifiable landmark. Its dome is considered an architectural masterpiece taking over 140 years to complete. First built as a church during the 4th-6th centuries, the Duomo now acts as a museum to showcase its incredible artwork consuming the interior walls. Built by Filippo Brunelleschi, the Cathedral of Florence was consecrated by Pope Eugene IV in 1436. Photos of the Duomo don’t do it justice. The terracotta tiles and white marble ribs that engulf the dome are a beauty best appreciated up-close.

Florence’s other historic landmark is the Ponte Vecchio. The Ponte Vecchio, otherwise known as the “Old Bridge '' is a medieval stone arch bridge over the Arno River. Known for its shopping stands, the Ponte Vecchio has shops dating back to the 13th century. Originally, butchers, tanners and farmers occupied these stands but are now most known for their jewelry, art, and souvenirs. Taking a stroll across the Ponte Vecchio during sunset with gelato in hand is what Florence is truly all about.

For any visitor, hiking to the Piazzale Michelangelo is the best way to experience the city's vastness. At the watchpoint, visitors can see breathtaking views of the hills backing the city. Approximately 36 minutes walking distance from the city center, this panoramic view of the city is too perfect to pass up. After about a quarter-mile of cobblestone steps, you are immediately drawn to a view so surreal it looks imaginary. Visitors often come for sunset with a box of pizza or a bottle of wine as they sit on the crowded steps to admire the city's mesmerizing beauty.

Florence’s uniqueness comes from its ability to make its visitors feel a sense of comfort and familiarity. The city's narrow streets, quaint buildings and friendly locals give a sense of home travelers never thought they could experience.