Italy…. Tuscany.... Florence…. Pisa...

 

Our journey from Rome brought us to the heart of Tuscany—Florence, a city that feels like stepping into a Renaissance painting. The iconic bridges over the Arno River and the lively central city square, bustling with locals and travelers alike, painted the perfect welcome.

We made our way to the Galleria dell ‘Accademia, home to Michelangelo’s masterpiece—David. Standing before the marble statue, it’s hard not to be awestruck by the sheer artistry and detail. It’s one of those moments where time pauses and history feels incredibly alive. 

Florence’s soul can truly be felt in Piazza della Signoria, the city’s grand central square. Surrounded by architectural marvels and steeped in centuries of history, it’s more than just a gathering place—it’s a living museum under the open sky. As we stepped into the square, we were instantly swept up in the energy. Musicians played softly on the cobblestones, people lounged on benches with gelato in hand, and the sound of bells echoed gently from nearby towers.

The Palazzo Vecchio, Florence’s historic town hall, dominates the square with its impressive fortress-like presence and soaring clock tower. Right outside the palace, a replica of Michelangelo’s David stands tall, marking the original spot where the real David once stood before being moved to the Accademia.

What truly makes this plaza magical is the Loggia dei Lanzi, an open-air sculpture gallery on one side of the square. Here, masterpieces like Perseus with the Head of Medusa and The Rape of the Sabine Women seem to come alive in dramatic marble and bronze, capturing stories and emotions from the Renaissance in stunning form.

Cafés line the square, offering the perfect place to sit and soak in the surroundings. We paused here to have lunch, a very nice vegetarian linguine pasta with pesto sauce, cappucini and the  famous gelato.

Piazza della Signoria isn’t just a tourist spot; it’s a place where Florence breathes. Whether you’re admiring the art, listening to live music, or simply enjoying the view, it’s a must-see experience that leaves you feeling connected to the city’s rich and vibrant past.

No trip to Florence is complete without a stroll across the Ponte Vecchio—perhaps the city’s most iconic and romantic landmark. This medieval stone bridge, whose name literally means “Old Bridge,” arches gracefully over the Arno River and has stood the test of time since the 14th century. The tradition of jewelry shops on the bridge dates back to the 1500s, when the Medici family ordered butchers and tanners off the bridge to improve its image (and smell!).

As we walked across, we found ourselves mesmerized by the glimmering displays in the shop windows, the soft music played by street performers, and the stunning views of the river on either side. The atmosphere is both lively and timeless—artists sketching, and travelers pausing to take in the beauty.

The view from Ponte Vecchio at sunset is something truly special. The sun sets directly along the river, casting golden reflections on the water and bathing the bridge in warm light. It’s the kind of moment that stays with you—perfect for photos, but even better in memory. If you’re planning to visit, try to go early in the morning or just before sunset when the light is magical and the crowds are a bit thinner.

Time to start our journey to Pisa and the leaning tower!

                                                    PEACE ON EARTH

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