Palazzo Vecchio
Florence at night… Last night after dinner outside (portable heaters still needed), we took a nice night time stroll through the center of Florence. The streets are so well lit and filled with people just enjoying the scenery, you feel instantly relaxed and comfortable. I have included some pics I took with just my iPhone… First we came upon Palazzo Vecchio, (Old Palace) the town hall of Florence. Built around 1299, the office of the Mayor has been located here since 1872. It mostly houses a museum open to the public, I really enjoyed it on a previous visit.
Local Guitarist on the Ponte Vecchio
Next, walking towards the river we heard the sounds of some classical guitar. A local musician was playing some beautiful music right on the Ponte Vecchio (Old Bridge). He was really talented, he was selling CDs and was a pleasure to listen to. Of course I had to contribute to the guitar case… ;-)
Art on the Street
Then we headed back towards my apartment, looking in shop windows and then came upon the ultimate in art on the street. And I mean that literally, art really created and drawn on the street! Much of the historical center now has been made zona pedonale (pedestrian zone), so this large canvas is now available. The gentlemen in my picture is the artist and drew this in pastels it seems. Even though temporary, he still kept reviewing and improving his work. Working off a photo, seen in the lower left, he created this masterpiece in front of many admiring fans. Contributions were most appreciated and well deserved. Sad though that it rained the following day…
Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo)
We then passed THE Duomo. Building of this magnificent church began in 1296 and was completed in 1436. Phew… I never get tired of walking by here, just amazing. It’s still the largest brick constructed dome in the world, also amazing. If you ever get the chance to go up in the Duomo, I highly recommend it, just so breathtakingly beautiful. Enough said.
My Street
Just a couple blocks from the Duomo is my apartment. I’m on one of those cute little pedestrian only streets I’ve always loved. What’s also at the end of my street? The San Lorenzo Mercato (market), lots of shopping, dangerous for me. But that topic will be saved for another day. ;-) Until next time, buona notte tutti!
7 Responses to Firenze di Notte