The first stop was The Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore (Florence Cathedral). The Piazza del Duomo is in the center of the city and includes the Baptistery, the church, which is the third largest in Europe, and Giotto's bell tower. We plan to climb to the top of the Duomo to see the best view of the city, all 653 steps.
We also walked by San Lorenzo, an open air market consisting of stands selling leather goods, bracelets, florentine stationary, etc. Some merchants throw a blanket on the ground and sell knock off purses to tourists. However, this is illegal in Florence. If the police spot them the vendors scoop up all their merchandise and make a run for it. If you are caught buying one of these bags you could also be fined 100 euro.
This chain connected to two posts was one of my favorite spots on the tour. These "love locks" all have the names of happy couples on them who have visited Florence together. When you come with your true love you're supposed to buy a lock, put both of your names on it with a message, lock it to the chain, and throw the key into the Arno river. I thought it was the sweetest idea, adding much appreciated character to the street.
The love locks are located near the Ponte Vecchio or "old bridge." This is the only bridge that wasn't destroyed by bombs during World War II. It is now home to a famous jewelry market, but be prepared to spend lots-o-money...it's very expensive. The bridge used to be the location of the town's fish market, but it is said that Cosimo Medici (a member of the rich banking family who ruled Florence) didn't like the smell of fish and demanded it be closed.
This is a view of one of the smaller bridges from the Ponte Vecchio
Our wonderful tour guide! Whenever something would happen she would shout "Mama Mia!"
Gorgeous photos. Loving the blog. Wish I was there. Eat some coconut gelato for me.
ReplyDeleteEJ