Florence – the city of art historical and architectural masterpieces
Florence is an Italian city, which is also the capital of the Tuscany region. The city is one of the most important cities in the world in terms of art history. Therefore, the city in Italy is often referred to as the capital of the arts. This can be attributed, among other things, to the fact that hardly any other city has such an artistic diversity. The capital of Tuscany is considered the cradle of the Renaissance and therefore attracts visitors from all over the world. Especially in the late Middle Ages, the city was able to secure this priority through power politics. In addition, many riches were accumulated during this time, which can still be admired throughout the city.
The overall picture of the city in Italy was largely shaped by the Medici
As the Pope’s bankers, the members of the Medici patrician family could make money. In addition, you gained a lot of influence through the post with the Pope and so the family was able to take power in the Italian metropolis from 1434. Apart from minor interruptions, the Medici were the city’s leading family for over 300 years. From 1569 the Medici even rose to grand dukes of all of Tuscany. Thanks to a clever marriage policy, the Medici succeeded in expanding their power and influence. The Medici included several popes.
But in addition to the expansion of power, the Medici was particularly important: the art! From the very beginning, the family promoted architecture and art in the Tuscan city. They usually left the artists completely free hand. And so the Medici family paved the way for a new era in art. The Renaissance was born. Thanks to the Medici, artists and personalities were allowed to give free rein to their creativity in Florence. Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo and Botticelli were among the artists who permanently changed the cityscape.
In the footsteps of the great artists
Many visitors are on the trail of the great artists and the Medici family on a city trip to the Italian art metropolis. The Uffizi Gallery should never be forgotten. The Uffizi (translated: the offices) were originally actually the “home of the offices”. However, at the Medici’s request, the magnificent building was transformed into an impressive collection of paintings. The Uffizi Gallery is now one of the most famous and renowned art museums in the world. Paintings from all periods from the 13th to the 18th century can be admired in over 50 different halls. However, the focus is on the Italian Renaissance. Among other things, visitors can admire the works of the artists Raffael, da Vinci, Botticelli and Michelangelo. In addition, various ancient statues and sculptures can be found in the wide corridors that connect the individual halls.
The former official residence and residence of the Medici family must not be missing on the tour of one of the world’s most important cities in terms of art history. The Palazzo Vecchio used to be the official residence of the highest officials and was eventually converted into a residence by the Medici. The palace now houses the town hall of the city again, but is still very magnificent and should not be forgotten during a city trip for art historical reasons alone.
The Piazzale Michelangelo, on the other hand, offers the most beautiful and best view of the whole city. But of course you can enjoy a lot more than just the view on this square, because there are also some copies of Michelangelo’s statues. Among them is the extremely well-known statue of David. But there are also a number of impressive statues to be found in Piazza della Signoria. These are also spread across the entire square, with the impressive Neptune Fountain standing out. Overall, this square is reminiscent of Florentine and generally Italian history. However, the Strozzi Palace is also one of the most important art historical sights. With its spacious inner courtyard and imposing construction, the palace embodies the Renaissance like no other palace.