Italy, Florence

A city of central Italy on the Arno River east of Pisa. Originally an Etruscan settlement, then a Roman town.

Florence , capital of Tuscany and of Firenze prov., central Italy, on the Arno River, at the foot of the Apennines. Florence, the jewel of the Italian Renaissance, is one of the world's great historic cities.

The city's many works of architecture include the cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, the Pitti Palace, and the Uffizi.

Florence is a tourist center known for its handicrafts.

Florence is without doubt one of the world's most beautiful cities and after one visit many visitors keep returning to view the fabulous buildings, excellent galleries and striking churches. Located in the heart of Tuscany, the city has so much to offer that any length of time would never seem enough to take advantage of all the attractions available. All tastes, budgets and ages are catered for in what is one of the most-loved cities on the planet.

Florence is also famous for its fine art and architecture. It is said that, of the 1,000 most important European artists of the second millennium, 350 lived or worked in Florence.

At the heart of the city in Piazza della Signoria is Bartolommeo Ammanati's Fountain of Neptune, which is a masterpiece of marble sculpture at the terminus of a still functioning Roman aqueduct. The Arno river, which cuts through the old part of the city, is as much a character in Florentine history as many of the men who lived there.

The principal public transportation network within the city is run by the ATAF and Li-nea bus company, with tickets available at local tobacconists, bars and newspaper stalls.

The city is located close to Peretola Airport which has scheduled services run by major European carriers such as Air France and Lufthansa.

Florence is also home to the Italian haute couture establishment Gucci, notable as one of the most famous Italian fashion houses not located in Milan. Prada, Gucci, and Roberto Cavalli also have large offices and stores in Florence or its outskirts.