Rome

Our journey begins in the Eternal City, Rome. Here, you can’t miss the iconic Colosseum, where gladiators once fought for their lives. Wander through the Roman Forum, the heart of ancient Rome, and marvel at the ruins of temples and government buildings. Don’t forget to visit the Vatican City, home to St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel. Make sure to toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure your return to Rome and enjoy a delicious gelato at Piazza Navona, surrounded by stunning Baroque architecture.

Florence

Next, we head to the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence. Marvel at the stunning architecture of the Duomo, with its iconic red-tiled dome designed by Brunelleschi. Visit the Uffizi Gallery, where you can admire masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci. Stroll across the Ponte Vecchio, a medieval bridge lined with jewelry shops, and take in the views of the Arno River.

Pisa

A short drive from Florence takes us to Pisa, home to the famous Leaning Tower. Snap a photo holding up the tower and explore the beautiful Piazza dei Miracoli, which also houses the Pisa Cathedral and Baptistery. Don’t miss the chance to climb the tower for a unique perspective of the city.

Cinque Terre

Now, it’s time to discover the picturesque villages of Cinque Terre. Hike between the five colorful towns of Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, each with its own unique charm. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Ligurian Sea, and savor some fresh seafood paired with the local white wine, Cinque Terre DOC.

Genoa

Our next stop is the historic port city of Genoa. Wander through the narrow streets of the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and admire the stunning palaces along Via Garibaldi. Visit the impressive Aquarium, one of the largest in Europe, and indulge in some authentic pesto Genovese, a local specialty made with fresh basil, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese.

Milan

We continue to the fashion capital, Milan. Admire the stunning Gothic architecture of the Duomo, the largest church in Italy, and take in the panoramic views from its terrace. Visit the famous La Scala Opera House, where legendary performers like Maria Callas and Luciano Pavarotti have graced the stage. Shop till you drop at Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the world’s oldest shopping malls, and don’t miss Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece, The Last Supper, at the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie.

Lake Como

A short drive from Milan takes us to the enchanting Lake Como. Explore the charming lakeside towns of Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio, each offering stunning views and picturesque streets. Take a boat tour to admire the elegant villas and lush gardens that line the shores, and soak in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Verona

Next, we visit the romantic city of Verona, the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Explore the ancient Roman Arena, one of the best-preserved amphitheaters in the world, and catch an opera performance during the summer season. Visit Juliet’s balcony at Casa di Giulietta, and leave a love note on the courtyard wall. Stroll through the beautiful Piazza delle Erbe, a lively square filled with market stalls, cafes, and historic buildings.

Venice

Now, we head to the magical city of Venice. Glide through the canals on a gondola, and listen to the stories and legends shared by your gondolier. Visit the iconic St. Mark’s Square, home to the stunning St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. Explore the hidden alleys and bridges of this enchanting city, and don’t miss the chance to visit the colorful island of Burano.

Bologna

Our next stop is the culinary capital of Italy, Bologna. Wander through the vibrant Piazza Maggiore, surrounded by historic buildings and bustling cafes. Climb the Asinelli Tower for a panoramic view of the city’s red rooftops and medieval towers. Indulge in some delicious local cuisine, such as tortellini, tagliatelle al ragù, and mortadella, and learn the secrets of Italian cooking at a local cooking class.

Siena

We continue to the medieval city of Siena. Discover the stunning Piazza del Campo, one of Europe’s most beautiful squares, and the site of the famous Palio horse race. Visit the impressive Siena Cathedral, a masterpiece of Italian Gothic architecture, and admire its intricate marble floor and stunning frescoes. Immerse yourself in the city’s rich history by exploring its narrow streets, lined with well-preserved medieval buildings.

Naples

Next, we head south to the bustling city of Naples. Explore the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and visit the ancient ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, both destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Treat yourself to some authentic Neapolitan pizza at a local pizzeria, and don’t miss the chance to visit the beautiful island of Capri, just a short boat ride away.

Amalfi Coast

Now, it’s time to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Amalfi Coast. Drive along the winding coastal roads, and visit the charming towns of Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello. Take in the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and hike the Path of the Gods for an unforgettable panorama. Relax on the beautiful beaches, and savor the local limoncello, a sweet lemon liqueur produced in the region.

Sicily

Our penultimate destination is the captivating island of Sicily. Discover the ancient ruins of the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and hike the mighty Mount Etna, Europe’s highest and most active volcano. Explore the charming towns of Taormina, Syracuse, and Palermo, each offering a unique blend of history, culture, and stunning landscapes.

Sardinia

Our final stop is the beautiful island of Sardinia. Discover the stunning beaches of the Costa Smeralda, with their crystal-clear waters and white sands. Explore the ancient ruins of the Nuragic civilization, such as the impressive Su Nuraxi archaeological site. Visit the vibrant capital city of Cagliari, with its historic old town and lively marina. Experience the unique Sardinian culture, cuisine, and traditions, and don’t miss the chance to try some local specialties like pecorino cheese, pane carasau, and mirto liqueur.

Conclusion

And that concludes our incredible journey through Italy’s top 15 destinations. Each location offers a unique experience, from the rich history and culture to the breathtaking landscapes and delicious cuisine. I hope this virtual tour has inspired you to plan your own Italian adventure and create unforgettable memories in this beautiful country.

If you have any questions or need more information about any of these destinations, feel free to ask. I’m here to help!

The post Top 15 Destinations in Italy: Your Ultimate Italian Road-Trip appeared first on Travel This.

Florence – the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance.

How did it get to be such an architectural marvel and who helped shape its beauty and influence over Europe?

Let me take you on a journey through Florence, Italy where I’ll show you 10 Historically Significant places you’ll want to visit when you’re here.

A Brief History of Florence

Let’s take a step back in time starting at the city’s Roman Origin, 2000 years ago.

In the 1^st Century BC, Florence was originally founded as a Roman military colony and quickly grew into an important center for commerce and trade.

Then came the Medieval Growth Period. During the Middle Ages, Florence became a city-state and grew into a major cultural and economic center. It was home to powerful banking families including the historically famous Medici family.

Following the Middle Ages was the Italian Renaissance, a period of cultural and artistic growth that began in the 14^th century that had a profound impact on Florence. Artists such as Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Botticelli lived and worked in the city, producing some of the world’s most influential works of art.

The most influential period was that of the Renaissance which began in the 14^th century and lasted until the 17^th century. At the heart of this cultural movement was the Medici family who were the most powerful and influential family at the time.

The Medici were were rich and powerful, whose fortune began when the Medici bank was established in 1397 by Giovanni di Bicci de’ Medici. The bank grew rapidly and became one of the most powerful in Europe.

Because of their wealth, the family was able to fund the arts and architecture. They sponsored many of the most significant artists of the Italian Renaissance, including Michelangelo, da Vinci, and Botticelli.

10 Historically Significant Landmarks in Florence

Duomo

Also known as the Duomo di Firenze and the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, it is truly breathtaking. It’s one of, if not the most recognizable landmarks in Florence.

Construction of the cathedral began in 1296 and it took over 140 years to complete. The dome was the last piece to be completed as it proved to be a significant architectural challenge in those early engineering days. The final construction was completed in 1436.

The famous dome was designed by Filippo Brunelleschi and is considered a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture.

One of the most fascinating features of the Duomo is the bell tower, or campanile, located adjacent to the cathedral. The tower, designed by Giotto di Bondone is covered in beautiful pink, green, and white marble and is adorned with sculptures and reliefs. It takes 400 steps to get to the top but it’s worth the views of Florence!

Palazzo Vecchio

A medieval palace located in the heart of Florence in the Piazza della Signoria square, it has been the seat of government for over 700 years and served as the city hall since the 14^th century. The palace is famous for its ornate decorations and impressive art collection.

Over the centuries, the Palazzo Vecchio was the site of many important Florentine events including political meetings, court hearings, and public ceremonies.

Notable rooms inside the building include the Hall of the Five Hundred, a massive hall that served as the meeting place for the city’s governing council, and the Room of the Elements, which features a ceiling decorated with astrological symbols.

Uffizi Gallery

One of the most famous art museums in the world, you’ll find it in the heart of Florence.

It was originally built in the 16^th century to house government offices but was later converted to the museum it is today. Here you’ll find an impressive collection of Renaissance art, including works by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Botticelli, Raphael, and Caravaggio.

You’ll find works such as “The Birth of Venus”, “Primavera”, and “Annunciation” to name a few. You’ll also get to see an impressive collection of ancient Roman and Greek sculptures which no doubt had an immense influence on the inspiration of the Renaissance artists.

The Uffizi Gallery is very popular and it’s a good idea to book tickets in advance so you don’t have to wait in long lines. You might also want to checkout at their upcoming temporary exhibitions throughout the year before you book your travel.

Ponte Vecchio

A medieval bridge that spans the Arno River, it is one of the oldest and most iconic landmarks in the city.

Today’s bridge was built in the 14^th century but it has a longer history dating back to Roman times.

You’ll likely recognize this bridge as it’s been in countless post cards. The bridge is famous for its shops and stalls built directly onto the bridge itself. Originally, these shops were occupied by butchers and other merchants. Today, they are mostly jewelry, souvenir, and art shops.  

You might be surprised to know that the Ponte Vecchio also has a secret passage called the Vasari Corridor. It runs along the top of the bridge and connects the Palazzo Vecchio with the Pitti Palace and was built to hide members of the Medici family from public view.

Piazza Della Signoria

A large square in the centre of Florence that has been the political town square since the 14^th century.

Walk through the square and you’ll be surrounded by historic buildings all around including the Palazzo Vecchio and the Uffizi Gallery.

The Square is home to a number of important sculptures including a copy of Michelangelo’s David and the Fountain of Neptune, a large statue of the Roman sea god that was built in the 16^th century. The original David by Michelangelo once stood tall in the square but was later moved to the Accademia Gallery for preservation.

In the square, you’ll also find the open-air gallery, the Loggia dei Lanzi that houses a collection of ancient and Renaissance-period sculptures including the Perseus with the Head of Medusa by Benvenuto Cellini.

Interesting to note, the square has been the site of many important events in Florentine history, including public executions, political protests and attempted political assassinations.

Oltrarno District

The Oltrarno district was the area of commerce and trade. Historically, this district was the headquarters of the wool and silk trade. Florence was known for it’s production of fine textiles with beautiful silks that only the very wealthy could afford. Brightly colored textiles were made possible with the chemical, allum imported from the Ottomans and used as a dye.

Take a stroll through the Oltrarno district located on the south bank of the Arno river and check out the Palazzo Pitti, a magnificent Renaissance palace that was once the residence of the grand dukes of Tuscany and now serving as a museum. You’ll find a vast collection of art including works by Raphael, Titian, and Rubens.  

Hospital of Innocents

The Ospedale degli Innocente in Italian, this building is Italy’s oldest public institution. Located in the the Piazza della Santissima Annunziata, it was founded in 1419 by the Silk Guild as a founding hospital for abandoned children.

The historical building was designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, the famous Italian Renaissance architect and is considered one of his most important works. The façade of the building is characterized by a series of arches that create a sense of harmony and symmetry and the interior features a beautiful courtyard with a central fountain.

At it’s peak, the hospital housed up to 1000 children, cared for by the nuns of the order of San Giovanni di Dio.

Today, you can visit the Hospital of Innocents since it’s now a museum that tells the story of the institution and its role in the history of Florence. The museum features a collection of artwork including frescoes by Domenico Ghirlandaio and Andrea della Robbia that show the care of children in the hospital.

Basilica di San Lorenzo

Located in the heart of Florence, it is one of the largest and oldest churches in the city.

Designed by Filippo Brunelleschi and completed in the 15^th century, the church features a simple, yet elegant exterior that is characteristic of the Renaissance style with a façade made of smooth unadorned stone.

The interior of the Basilica is equally impressive with a spacious nave that is flanked by two aisles, and a beautiful altar that is made of marble featuring a sculpture of the Virgin Mary by Donatello. The church is also home to a number of chapels that are dedicated to various Saints and other religious figures.

One of the most impressive features of the Basilica di San Lorenzo is the Medici Chapel, a mausoleum that was built for the powerful Medici family in the 16^th century. The chapel is located at the back of the church and is decorated with intricate frescoes, sculptures, and mosaics. They depict scenes from the lives of the Medici family members who are buried there.

The basilica even houses the underground crypt of Cosimo de’ Medici who lived from 1389 to 1464. Cosimo became one of the most powerful men in Florence and used his wealth to fund public works including the construction of the Medici Palace and the expansion of the University of Florence.

Boboli Gardens

Once owned by the Medici family, the gardens are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. They’re one of the most famous and visited green spaces in the city and are considered a masterpiece of traditional Italian garden design.

The gardens were commissioned by, you guessed it, the Medici family in the 16^th century and were designed by a team of architects and landscapers including Niccolo Pericoli, Giorgio Vasari, and Bartolomeo Ammannati.

Covering an area over 45,000 square meters and divided into several distinct areas, each section highlights its own unique features.

The gardens are also home to a number of picturesque paths and winding alleys, terraces and balconies offering panoramic views of Florence. You’ll find small lakes, grottoes and artificial caves that add to the charm and whimsy of the garden.

Walls of Florence

Take a hike along a section of the walls and immerse yourself in the old days of Florence. Imagine what life would have been like for Medieval Florentines.

The walls of Florence are a historic system of fortifications that were built to protect the city from attacks during the period of the Renaissance. Constructed between the 14^th and 16^th centuries, they were designed by a number of famous architects and military engineers including both Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci.

Since Florence was becoming well known for it’s immense wealth, attacks from neighboring states were not uncommon. The walls consisted of defensive structures including gates, towers, and ramparts designed to withstand attacks from artillery.

By the 19^th century, the walls were no longer necessary and much of the remaining structures were dismantled.

You’ll find today’s remaining sections by the districts of Oltrarno, San Frediano, and San Niccolo.

And that’s a wrap. I hope you enjoyed this tour of Florence, the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance and that you’re feeling inspired to visit these historical landmarks!

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If you’re planning a trip to Venice, there are several historical landmarks that you should add to your itinerary. From the Byzantine-style St. Mark’s Basilica to the beautiful Baroque-style Santa Maria della Salute, here are five must-visit historical landmarks in Venice. Here are 5 historically significant landmarks to see in Venice, Italy.

The Historic St. Mark’s Basilica

St. Mark’s Basilica Located in St. Mark’s Square, St. Mark’s Basilica is one of the most famous landmarks in Venice. This beautiful Byzantine-style basilica dates back to the 11th century and is known for its intricate mosaics and ornate decorations. It was built to house the relics of St. Mark, which had been brought to Venice from Alexandria, Egypt. One of the most famous features of St. Mark’s Basilica is the Pala d’Ora, a spectacular altarpiece made of gold, enamel, and precious gems.

The Historic Doge’s Palace

Doge’s Palace The Doge’s Palace is a magnificent Gothic-style palace that was the home of the Doge, the ruler of the Venetian Republic and the seat of government from the 9th century until the fall of the Republic in 1797. It was built in the 14th century and is known for its beautiful architecture, ornate decorations, and historical significance. The Scala dei Giganti, or Staircase of the Giants, is one of the most striking features of the palace, leading to the Doge’s apartments. The prison cells located on the lower level of the palace offer a reminder of Venice’s darker history.

The Famous Peggy Guggenheim Collection

Peggy Guggenheim Collection The Peggy Guggenheim Collection is a modern art museum located in a beautiful 18th-century palace overlooking the Grand Canal. It houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by Picasso, Pollock, and Dali. The museum is dedicated to the memory of Peggy Guggenheim, an American art collector and influential patron in the mid-20th century.

The Historic Rialto Bridge

The Rialto Bridge The Rialto Bridge is one of the most iconic bridges in Venice and spans the Grand Canal. It was built in the 16th century and is known for its elegant design and beautiful views of the city. The bridge played an important role in commerce and trade, and features two inclined ramps that meet at the top to form a central portico lined with shops and market stalls.

The Historic Santa Maria della Salute

Santa Maria della Salute Built in the 17th century, Santa Maria della Salute is a beautiful Baroque-style church that commemorates the end of a devastating plague in 1630 and is a tribute to the Virgin Mary. It is located at the mouth of the Grand Canal and is known for its distinctive dome and beautiful interior. The church was designed by Baldassare Longhena and its façade is made of white Istrian stone featuring statues of Saints and Angels.

In Conclusion

These 5 historically significant landmarks to see in Venice, Italy are a must! And when you visit, don’t forget to experience the city’s traditional mode of transportation: the Venetian gondola. It’s a mesmerizing and unforgettable experience, especially if your guide sings traditional Venetian songs along the way.

Venice is a city rich in history and culture, and these five landmarks are a must-visit for any traveler looking to experience the city’s unique charm and beauty.

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