Florence - Day 2
- Nov. 18 - Nov. 19 -
One Last Day in Florence: Exploring the Cathedral and Seeking New Discoveries
November 19, 2023
On my final day in Florence, I made sure to revisit the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Florence Cathedral) to complete my exploration of this architectural masterpiece. It was also my last chance to wander through the city’s charming streets, where I always seemed to stumble upon something new—making getting lost in Florence a fun and rewarding adventure.
My Room With a View - Part Two: Capturing Florence at Night
If you happened to be in Florence on this day and noticed someone taking pictures of the Basilica at 3 a.m., it was likely me. I couldn’t resist capturing the stunning beauty of the cathedral in the quiet of the night, with no crowds around to spoil the view. The serene atmosphere of Florence at that hour provided the perfect opportunity for some unforgettable photos.
Baptistery of St. John: A Glimpse into Florence's Romanesque Architecture
The Baptistery of St. John (Baptistero di San Giovanni) is a stunning example of Italian Romanesque architecture, consecrated in 1059. This historic structure, located in the heart of Florence near the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, is one of the city's oldest and most revered buildings. Known for its octagonal shape, the Baptistery is renowned for its intricate mosaics, marble-clad exterior, and its significance as a site of Christian baptism.
During my visit, the Baptistery was undergoing significant renovations to preserve its unique architectural and artistic heritage, allowing visitors to witness the ongoing care and restoration that ensures this medieval treasure remains intact for future generations.
The Baptistery of St. John is also home to the famous Ghiberti's Gates of Paradise, a set of bronze doors considered a masterpiece of Renaissance art. These doors, located on the east side of the Baptistery, depict biblical scenes and are considered one of the most important contributions to Renaissance sculpture.
Giotto's Bell Tower: Climbing Florence’s Iconic Landmark
After conquering the climb to the top of Florence Cathedral, I decided to challenge myself again by ascending Giotto's Bell Tower (Campanile di Giotto), another iconic structure in Piazza del Duomo. Standing at 82 meters (269 feet) tall, this Gothic-style bell tower was designed by the renowned artist Giotto di Bondone in the early 14th century and remains one of the most recognizable features of Florence's skyline.
The climb to the summit is not for the faint of heart, as it involves navigating 414 steps up to the top. However, the journey is made more manageable with balconies every 100 steps or so, providing ample opportunities to rest and take in the stunning views of Florence below. These stops allowed me to snap a few photos and catch my breath before continuing the ascent.
Each level of the tower offers a unique perspective of the city, with panoramic views that stretch from the Duomo and Baptistery of St. John to the surrounding Tuscan hills. As I made my way up, I used the opportunity to scout out places I planned to visit later in the afternoon, marking landmarks visible from the tower.
Giotto's Bell Tower is not only a remarkable feat of engineering but also a symbol of Florence's artistic heritage. The intricate sculptures and colorful marble that adorn the tower are a testament to the city’s Renaissance legacy.
Wandering Florence: Exploring Iconic Landmarks and Hidden Gems
With a rough plan in mind for my afternoon walk, I set out to explore Florence further, guided by a few landmarks I had spotted from the top of Giotto's Bell Tower. My first stop was the Ponte Vecchio, one of Florence's most famous bridges. Dating back to 1345, this medieval stone bridge spans the Arno River and is lined with shops, many of which specialize in jewelry. The Ponte Vecchio is not only a symbol of the city’s history but also a vibrant area to shop and admire the craftsmanship of local artisans.
From the bridge, I headed towards the shopping district near the Porta Romana, the Gateway Arch, a monumental gateway that has welcomed visitors to Florence since Roman times. This area is a perfect blend of historical architecture and modern retail, offering an eclectic mix of high-end boutiques and artisan stores.
After soaking in the sights, I continued my walk to Piazza della Signoria, one of Florence's most famous squares. During my visit, I saw it in the daylight, giving me a fresh perspective of the Palazzo Vecchio, the Loggia dei Lanzi, and the famous Fountain of Neptune. This square is always bustling with life, surrounded by stunning sculptures and Renaissance art.
I certainly got my steps in on this overcast afternoon, with the cool weather making for an ideal day to wander the city. After a rewarding day of exploring Florence’s iconic landmarks, I capped it off with a delicious bowl of spaghetti, savoring the flavors of Tuscany.
