Visit Florence Italy

The Ponte Vecchio or Old Bridge is the oldest bridge spanning the Arno river. This is mostly due to a affection that Hitler had during the second World War for the bridge. Since the dictator at the time thought the bridge was so beautiful it was spared as the Germans fled from the invading allies. But this only covers some of the more recent history of this landmark.

Built in 1345 by Taddeo Gaddi as a replacement for a previous bridge that was in the same area this bridge definitely has seen some history over the years. The Medici family used an upper passageway to cross the bridge in order not to mingle with the crowds. But the Medici probably did not also want to mingle in with the green grocers and butchers who occupied the bridge at the time. You see in earlier times the bridge was an outdoor food market and more then likely did not smell very well. So in response to this the city kicked out the food stalls and instead had the jewelers and goldsmiths of the day move in.

As you would imagine the Ponte Vecchio is still occupied by many jewelers and gold shops. However some small shops also sell magazines and some sell gelato. The range of prices in the shops is actually varied and you can find deals here if you are diligent enough. Also since the area is also known for its leather you can be sure to find at least some of it represented on this bridge as well. You can find better prices for leather though at the San Lorenzo leather market as that is its specialty.

Many tourists just take pictures of the bridge and do not spend a whole lot of time actually walking it from end to end. I would recommend at least window shopping as this can tell you the type of wealth that exists in the area. Besides it is just fun to see what others have made. Regardless it is well worth your time to check out this bridge on your visit to Florence and the best part is that it is free! At least if you do not buy anything!

Florence is one of the largest cities in the region of Tuscany. When I even mention the name Tuscany many will think of the numerous vineyards that grow in that region. The region of Tuscany is world renowned for its production of outstanding and world class vintages that is prized by many collectors. So if you are going to visit the area then I believe it would be a good idea to familiarize yourself with some of the native wines that are grown there.

With over one hundred and fifty thousand acres devoted to the production of wine I am sure you will find something to drink in this area. Tuscany alone produces 58 million gallons of wine per year making it the 4th most abundant wine producing region in Italy. The area is home to three dozen major and secondary varieties of wine half in white and the other half in red.

For the white grape variety you have the Sauvignon Blanc then the Trebbiano and Malvasia grapes. But those are only the internationally known and widely recognized whites. If you want a truly Italian white wine then look no further then the Vermentino and Vernaccia which seem to be mostly known to this region and not exported often.

For the red wines, my favorite by the way, you have the following varieties Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon and do not forget the ever so famous Sangiovese which is also grown in other locales notably California. The only red wine of that region that really stands on its own and is only grown in Italy is Canaiolo as it hits the palate in a much different manner that can only be experienced and not explained. You of course have the various Chianti’s that are grown and sold just about everywhere. While certainly worth purchasing if you enjoy red wines it just does not stand out anymore since it is so popular.

The city of Florence in Italy is in the heart of the Tuscany region of that country. For those that are familiar with that region you may know that this area is well known for it’s regional wine and food. For many that fact alone is the reason why they choose to visit this part of Italy. For others the interest is geared towards the classical arts and for this Florence is also the heart of the country. Here you will find many works of art from some of the most regarded artists of all time. I mean with names like Leonardo Da Vinci and Michelangelo di Lodovico Buonarroti Simoni who was also known as Michelangelo are just some of the works that are commonly seen in this area.

If wine and art does not capture your fancy then the sheer beauty of the place will surely capture anyone’s heart. The rolling hills of green with medieval towns sprouting up like mushrooms on the landscape give the whole area a surreal appearance to many Americans and those not used to structures existing for longer than two hundred years.

Speaking of time this place is just dripping in history and archaeological treasures. For many armchair archaeologists out there you can live your dream by visiting an actual archaeological dig site in the area. If you connect with your local University there could very well be a program that will actually let you work on these sites as a supervised volunteer.

Many of the great writers have made Florence their home at one time or another so you could visit some of the very same places they once stayed. Who knows the writing bug may catch you and you could sit down and write the next best sonnet or play that could become a great success. Of course I am dreaming when I say this but you just never know with this place which makes the city just so appealing.

What ever your reason to visit this city I am sure if you give it time it will capture your heart and mind. There are many opportunities to stay for a relatively long period of time as you could stay as a student, artist or even a volunteer teacher. Regardless of your reason I am sure that if you do choose to leave the city will call you back sometime in your life.