Florence
Summary
Heart of the Renaissance
Discover how Florence, a small Roman settlement prone to annual flooding, became the powerhouse of the Renaissance and the greatest city in Europe. Underpinning its success was its extraordinary levels of economic development, in particular its banking which financed nations and Popes alike. This wealth fuelled a staggering flourishing of the arts, from the development of opera to the masterpieces of literature which made Florentine the basis of the Italian language, to the unparalleled art works forged by its army of extraordinary painters and sculptors. This tour traces the development of this unique city, immersing the guest in its exquisite art and architecture, including the Medici chapel, Baptistery and the wonderful Basilica of Santa Croce.
What to Expect
- Discover world class art at Florence’s incomparable musea, including the Uffizi and Accademia with prebooked entrance times to avoid the queues
- Visit notable buildings of religious and civic architecture, the construction of which was financed by the Medici family who ruled Florence for nearly three centuries
- Explore the Etruscan Temple, Roman theatre and bath complex at Fiesole
