As we step into the enchanting city of Florence, Italy, we embark on a journey to unravel its mystique. This captivating metropolis has been the epicenter of art, architecture, and culture for centuries, leaving an indelible mark on our collective imagination. In this article, we’ll delve into 15 intriguing secrets that will transform your understanding of Florence and make your visit an unforgettable experience.
1. Street Numbering: A Red Herring in Florence
As you navigate the cobblestone streets of Florence, be aware that street numbers are not always as they seem. The city’s buildings have two color-coded systems: blue for residential areas and red for commercial activities. This unique convention can lead to confusion, so make sure to double-check your route before exploring.
2. A Clock with a Mind of Its Own
In the heart of Florence lies an ancient orologio in the Duomo’s facade, painted by the renowned artist Paolo Uccello. What makes this clock special is its unique mechanism behind the wall, which causes it to turn in the opposite direction of traditional clocks. This anomaly has left many puzzled and intrigued.
3. The Asymmetrical Stone of Palazzo Pitti: A Symbol of Power
The facade of Palazzo Pitti, constructed by a powerful merchant family, boasts an asymmetrical stone block that measures 10 meters long and features Luca Pitti. According to some, this stone symbolizes the opponents that Luca Pitti defeated, while others see it as a representation of his own ambition.
4. The Bull with Horns: A Warning or Ode to Power?
On the wall near the biglietteria in the Duomo, a bull sculpture has sparked debate among historians and locals alike. Some believe it’s an ode to the power of draft animals, while others think it’s a warning to a former husband who once stayed nearby.
5. Wine Selling Windows: A Glimpse into 16th-Century Commerce
These “buchette del vino” are found on walls near street entrances and were used by 16th-century Florentine lords to sell their wine to passersby. Many of these windows still feature the word “VINO,” a testament to the city’s rich history.
6. Dante’s Stone: A Connection to the City’s Past
In Piazza Duomo, between two shops lies a marble slab with the inscription “sasso di Dante.” According to legend, this stone was once used by Dante Alighieri himself as he watched the construction of the Cathedral and observed the workers.
7. The Bees Under Ferdinando I: A Mathematical Marvel
Under the statue of Ferdinando I in Piazza Santissima Annunziata lies a bronze plaque featuring an ape queen surrounded by bees. What’s astonishing is that the number of bees appears to be impossible to count without touching the plate with your fingers.
8. Statues on Ponte di Santa Trinita: A Symphony of Seasons
The Ponte di Santa Trinita, adorned with beautiful statues, represents each season and cartigli featuring capricorns. Two lion’s heads also symbolize great strength and protect against Arno floods and Pisan invasions.
9. Porcellino Fountain: Good Luck at Its Core
On the Loggia del Mercato nuovo’s balcony lies a bronze cinghiale (wild boar), which, according to legend, brings good luck. To activate its fortune, you must put a coin in the cinghiale’s mouth; if it falls into the grate, your fortune is secure.
10. The Inverted Balcony: A Study in Architectural Anomalies
In Borgo Ognissanti lies a strange balcony that presents architectural elements in reverse. This anomaly may be the result of a misunderstanding between Baldovinetti and Alessandro de Medici, who forbade overly ornate features with an ordinance.
11. Orsanmichele Church: A Grain Silo with a Hidden Past
Walking down Via dei Calzaiuoli leads to the Orsanmichele church, once a grain silo that housed the Grain Market and the Loggia del Grano. This ancient building now serves as a testament to Florence’s rich history.
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12. The Oldest Pharmacy in Europe: A Century-Old Institution
Near Santa Maria Novella Station lies the oldest and most historic pharmacy in Europe, dating back to 1612. This centuries-old institution has evolved into an herbalism and perfumery shop, a true gem of Florence’s past.
13. Giambologna’s Devil: A Peculiar Sculpture with a Rich History
Between Via Strozzi and Via Vecchietti lies a peculiar sculpture of a devil with a flag. Created by the renowned artist Giambologna, this original work is now on display at the Museo Bardini.
14. Santa Maria Novella Church Facade: A Masterclass in Renaissance Art
The facade of this church, one of Florence’s most important Renaissance works, features white and serpentino marble decorations reminiscent of the San Giovanni Baptistery. Closer inspection reveals many odes to the powerful Rucellai family.
15. Michelangelo’s Sculpted Portrait: A Testament to Genius
After admiring the David statue in Piazza Signoria, head to Palazzo Vecchio to find another testament to Michelangelo’s skill. On the wall adjacent to the ramp of entry lies a sculpture of a man with an unmistakable signature.
Organizing Your Stay in Florence: Tips, Flights, and Hotels
To make the most of your time in Florence, consider the following:
- Flights: Book flights to Florence Airport (FLR) well in advance to ensure availability and affordability.
- Hotels: Choose from a range of options, including boutique hotels, luxury resorts, and budget-friendly hostels. Some popular areas include the historic center, Oltrarno, and Santa Croce.
By exploring these 15 curiosities and understanding the intricacies of Florence’s history and culture, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate this enchanting city like a local.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the significance of the clock in the Duomo’s facade?
A1: The orologio in the Duomo’s facade was painted by Paolo Uccello and functions thanks to a mechanism behind the wall, causing it to turn in the opposite direction of traditional clocks.
Q2: Why is there a bull sculpture with horns on the wall of the Duomo?
A2: The bull sculpture may be an ode to the power of draft animals or a warning to a former husband who once stayed nearby.
Q3: What is the meaning behind the word “VINO” written on some wine selling windows?
A3: These windows were used by 16th-century Florentine lords to sell their wine to passersby, and many still feature the word “VINO.”
Q4: Who created Dante’s stone, and what is its significance?
A4: According to legend, Dante Alighieri himself used this marble slab as he watched the construction of the Cathedral.
Q5: Why are there bees under Ferdinando I statue in Piazza Santissima Annunziata?
A5: The number of bees appears impossible to count without touching the plate with your fingers.
Q6: What does each season and cartigli on Ponte di Santa Trinita represent?
A6: Each corner represents a season, while cartigli feature capricorns. Two lion’s heads symbolize great strength and protect against Arno floods and Pisan invasions.
Q7: How can I activate the good luck of Porcellino fountain?
A7: To activate its fortune, you must put a coin in the cinghiale’s mouth; if it falls into the grate, your fortune is secure.
Q8: What caused the inverted balcony to be constructed in Borgo Ognissanti?
A8: The anomaly may be due to a misunderstanding between Baldovinetti and Alessandro de Medici regarding overly ornate features.
Q9: Who created Orsanmichele Church, and what is its significance?
A9: Once a grain silo, this ancient building now serves as a testament to Florence’s rich history.
Q10: What is the oldest pharmacy in Europe, and where can I find it?
A10: The oldest pharmacy in Europe dates back to 1612 and has evolved into an herbalism and perfumery shop near Santa Maria Novella Station.
