Florence, also known as Firenze, is a wonderfully exciting city to visit. Unlike Rome and Venice, Florence is much easier to navigate. Everything is more centralized, and there’s room to navigate around the big groups of tourists. If you’re planning on traveling to this enticing area of Italy, here are some fun facts you should know.
The city was founded in 59 B.C. by Julius Caesar, who established it for veteran Roman soldiers.
During the 15th-century, Florence was the mecca for artists, scientists, architects, and philosophers.
Florence was the first European city with paved streets.
The Medici family held enormous power throughout the Renaissance and were avid music patrons, which led to the invention of opera.
If you want to visit Florence Cathedral, keep in mind that there will be a long line. It’s one of the few places that does not have a fast pass option available, although entry is completely free.
Gelato was first created in Florence.
You will find all the best jewelry at the Ponte Vecchio, aka Old Bridge. This area has been central to the local jewelry-making industry for centuries. Additionally, this bridge is the only medieval bridge in the city to survive World World II.
For many tourist attractions, tickets sell out days ahead, so make sure you buy tickets for your must-see sights a few weeks before your arrival.
Although Milan is often celebrated as Italy’s fashion capital, Florence consistently ranks in the top 20 of the most influential fashion cities. Gucci was also first established in this city in 1921 bu Guccio Gucci.
Florence is also the birthplace of Leonardo Da Vinci, who was born on April 15, 1452.
The city was also home to explorer Amerigo Vespucci, who America was named after.
When the Kingdom of Italy was first established, Florence served as the capital.
According to UNESCO, a third of the world’s significant art pieces are in Florence, including Michelangelo’s David.
The term Florence Syndrome is a real thing. It refers to the overwhelming feeling people experience when seeing things of great beauty. The phrase was created when French author Henri-Marie Beyle visited the city and was overcome by the city’s beauty.
Sources:
- Florence [Interesting Italy Facts]
- Visiting Florence [A Zest For Travel]
- Ten Things You Should Know About Florence [Auto Europe]
- 20 Amazing Facts about Florence [Isolated Traveller]
- 35 Fun Facts about Florence [Passport Symphony]
- Feature Picture [Need Pix]
