Introduction to Firenze

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Three centuries of conflict finally came to a close at the end of the 14th century and the Medici family of bankers slowly came into power within the city. At that time a new passion seized the city: the study of the glory and grandeur of ancient Greece and Rome. With it came a new respect for learning and creativity, and the Renaissance was born.

Through the centuries the Florentine economy has depended on trade, especially merchants, bankers, and those in the wool and textile industry. The strength of the city-state's economic power convinced merchants in the rest of Europe to accept their gold coin, the florin, as the standard European currency. It was this strong economic base that allowed tiny Florence to become a major cultural capital of Europe.

Michelangelo's David, Galleria dell' Accademia.

View of Firenze from the Forte di  Belvedere.