Back again in Florence

It was great to be back in Florence, albeit an overcrowded city.  Yes, lots of tourists and, as it was also the Easter holidays, group upon group upon group of Italian schoolchildren of varying ages.

Something which the former Mayor of Florence (now the young and handsome President of Italy) did was to ban unnecessary vehicles from the centre of this beautiful city.  Not only does it make the roads safer but has also cut down on pollution.  Everyone gains - people's health and the fabric of the historic buildings.  But when strolling do be on the lookout for bicycles!  Thousands of them.  I suspect Florentines are at lot healthier now.

If pushed for time and you don't feel the need to climb up inside the Duomo (Cathedral) don't waste time going inside.  The exterior with its white, green and pink marble facade is by far the best part and if you have strong legs you can always climb the matching bell tower.  Although at the moment the outside of the Baptistry is wrapped in plastic for cleaning purposes it is still open to the public.  The Gates of Paradise doors are replicas, the originals being in the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo along with other valuable artifacts.

Whilst I was there all of the museums at the imposing Pitti Palace were open.  The ticket office is at the far end of the building (from the Ponte Vecchio).  If you are over 65 take your passport for senior discounts and the Boboli Gardens on their own are FREE for seniors.  The palace was begun in 1440 for Luca Pitti, a rival of the Medici family for whom it has also been a home.  When Florence was the capital it was used by the Italian Royal family.

Although the Piazza della Signoria may not be a familiar name, the Uffizi is and this is where the art gallery is located, but towering over the square is the Palazzo Vecchio (Town Hall).  Even if you don't go inside to see the fabulous rooms and artwork, do pop into the courtyard to see the delightful fountain with a cherub holding a dolphin.  So sweet.

My favourite church in Florence has to be the Santa Croce with its green and white facade.  I think that is because here I can pay homage to a great musician - Rossini, who is buried at this church.  There are also the tombs of Galileo, Michelangelo, Machiavelli and a Memorial to Dante (who died in Ravenna).

You like shopping?  There are plenty of shops some of which can be expensive but there are also markets.  There is an open air one near the Church of San Lorenzo and, just a block from the Piazza della Signoria, is the straw and leather market.

Incidentally, if planning to visit the museums do remember that queues can be very long.  Advice?  Get there well before opening time.