Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Stop to See the Delights of Florence During Your Next Trip to Italy

Italy is internationally recognized for its vast culture, art development and language production. Traveling through Italy as a vacation destination or as an Italy study abroad program is a wonderful way to discover the country where the two thirds of the world's historical heritage lie. All types of architectural styles of the west globe can be found in Italy. Many visitors to Italy leave in awe at the many priceless pieces of art and history.

From palaces to castles exquisitely decorated and pensions or guest houses owned by friendly local people. The perfect place to begin your journey through Italy or to simply study abroad in Italy is the city of Florence. Florence is at the heart of Italy. You'll experience its passions and indulgences which awaken all the senses with every breath. From its visual masterpieces to its unique architecture, you experience a sensory overload from everything Florentine has to offer.

Birthplace to the Renaissance as the center of politics, art, and intellectual thought, Florence, Italy is in Tuscany area, midway between Rome to the South and Milan to the north. Downtown Florence is one of the most historically significant cities in Western culture. Here tourists and Italy study abroad students alike come to take in the Uffizi Gallery, the Ponte Vecchio Bridge crossing the River Arno, and the St. Croce Chuch. There is also the Duomo, the city's Exhibition and Congress Centre.

When it comes to traveling through Florence, it's hard to narrow down exactly which spot defines the very essence of its cultural history. You'll hear a strong argument to this with the Basilica di San Miniato al Monte. Construction on this beautiful church was begun in 1013 in the name of St. Miniato, an Armenian Prince beheaded for being nothing more than a Christian. Legends say that he was thrown to the beasts in the Amphitheatre, but a panther refused to eat him. When beheaded by the emperor, Miniato is believed to have physically carried his head up the hill of Mount Fiorentinus, which later became the site of the church.

Whether or not you believe this legend or not, there is no question that this Italian historical sight is truly beautiful, and it is one of the most tranquil places in all of Italy, let alone Florence. It is one more reason to choose to study abroad in Italy.

Florence is a city that requires more than a weekend or a few days to experience it all. Plan on visiting during the most pleasant season between April and June and give yourself at least a week or two to enjoy the city and its surrounding countryside.

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