Card Player Cruises Mediterranean Cruise
Florence is one of the most outstanding cities in all of Italy and
was a scenic 90 minute drive from the port. The highlight for almost
everyone who visits this city that gave birth to the Italian Renaissance
is the Cathedral of Santa Maria Del Fiore (Duomo). It was begun
in 1296, yet was not consecrated until 1436. The architect, Arnolfo
di Cambio, had begun this exquisite church generations before it
was completed, yet its claim to fame is the dome (1420-36) by Brunelleschi.
This has often been hailed as "a miracle of design" and
after viewing it, this is easily understood. Michelangelo's masterpiece
"David" stands in a museum only a few blocks away. It
is among other wondrous pieces by other famous sculptors and artists.
The museum is a no-camera zone, as are many of the places where
photo enthusiasts would go wild. It makes it nice to be able to
enjoy these pieces without having to bob and weave among the shutterbugs,
but would have made for some great pictures here. Giotto's Bell
Tower, the Baptistry San Giovani, and the Basilica di Santa Croce
were other popular spots visited on this most memorable day. |
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