Venice and Beyond

Transcription

Venice and Beyond

stevebrownd50
Venice and Beyond
Florence, Rome, Venice, 7 Days
Table of contents:
Guide Description 2
Itinerary Overview 3
Daily Itineraries 6
My List 28
Florence Snapshot 29
Rome Snapshot 38
Venice Snapshot 44
1
Guide Description
AUTHOR NOTE: This is your week in Italy and making Venice
your home base is a step toward understanding what makes Italy
so special. After seven days in the land where "si" is heard you
may be writing sonnets and performing them in your cubicle to
whomever may care to listen. Explore Venice and spend a day in
Florence and Rome.
2
things to do
restaurants
hotels
nightlife
Itinerary Overview
Day 1 - Venice
DAY NOTE: When you arrive in Venice and have consulted your
map, you may be tempted to drag your luggage to your hotel.
If you ignore the rest of my itinerary and spend the rest of your
time in your hotel room, then please take my advice this once and
higher a water taxi. It is cool, very Venetian, and you will arrive at
your hotel in style. Once you start wandering the streets and see
some poor soul wrestling a Samsonite over the top of the Rialto
Bridge you will understand what I mean. You are checked-in and
ready to explore. Your first stop in Venice must be Piazza San
Marco. Climb to the top of the Campanile for great views and then
visit the Basilica di San Marco and the Galleria of San Marco.
Before dinner at La Furatola walk to the Rialto Bridge.
Basilica di San Marco
Famous Basilicas
San Marco Campanile
Panoramic view of the city
Basilica di San Marco - Pala d'Oro e
Tesoro
Venetian-Byzantine goldsmiths
Ponte di Rialto
Historic Grand Canal Bridge
La Furatola
Creative fish dishes
Hotel Rialto
Adjacent to the Rialto Bridge
Ercole Moretti
Glassware
Museo Correr
Venetian Paintings
Due Colonne
Quiet with Outdoor Tables
Hotel Rialto
Day 3 - Florence, Rome
DAY NOTE: Day three is an express tour of Florence. You will
have to catch an early train from Venice to Florence to get it all
done in Florence. Schedule an entry time at the Galleria degli
Uffizi to avoid a longer wait. After the Uffizi visit the Palazzo
Vecchio and the Loggia dei Lanzi both in Piazza della Signoria.
Your afternoon will begin at the Piazza del Duomo with a visit
to the Battistero, the Cathedral, and the Campanile di Giotto.
Nearby is the Church Orsanmichele. Before leaving on a train
for Rome be sure to visit the Ponte Vecchio. A Eurostar from
Florence to Rome will arrive in less than two hours. Once you
have checked-in at your hotel go for dinner at the Vecchia Roma
da Severino il Pugliese.
Gallerie degli Uffizi (Uffizi Galleries)
World-Renowned Art Collection
Palazzo Vecchio (Museo)
Historical building
Day 2 - Venice
Loggia dei Lanzi
DAY NOTE: Your second day starts with a tour of Murano and
Venetian glass. In the afternoon if you have time walk along the
water toward the Giardini Pubblici to work up an appetite for
dinner at Due Colonne.
Piazza del Duomo
Great sculptures of the Renaissance.
Where the Heart of Florence lies.
Battistero
Murano
Home of the famous glassware
Museo Vetrario - Murano
Roman baptistery
Campanile di Giotto
Decorative bell tower
Murano glass
3
things to do
restaurants
hotels
nightlife
Itinerary Overview
Orsanmichele
Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi
Vecchia Roma da Severino il Pugliese
Sant'Ignazio di Loyola
Bled
The Pantheon
Medieval Grain Market
In true Pugliese tradition
Historic villa in nice central location
Day 4 - Rome, Venice
DAY NOTE: No city in Italy can really be seen in one day and
Rome is at the top of this list. I have done Rome in one day many
times with friends and family. Stay focused and drink lots of water.
You need to see as much of this city as you can in the time that
you have. Rome is my favorite big city in Italy and it is chock
full of things to see. From your hotel take the Metro to Piazza
di Spagna. From there work your way to the Fontana di Trevi.
As you navigate the streets toward the Panteon, stop and see
Sant’Ignazio di Loyola and Santa Maria Sopra Minerva. Marvel
at the Panteon, built nearly a millennium before the Battistero in
Florence, with techniques that were far beyond those available to
the Florentines in the Middle Ages. Your next stop is my favorite
piazza on the Italian peninsula, Piazza Navona. Near the piazza
is another church well worth visiting, San Luigi dei Francesi. On
the way to visit the Piazza del Campidoglio try to find the Fontana
delle Tartarughe. Between the Campidoglio and the Coliseum is
the Foro Romano. Time permitting, walk along the Tiber River
to St. Peter’s Basilica, otherwise take a cab or take the Metro.
After you have visited St. Peter’s you can catch a Metro to get
back to Termini, collect your luggage and catch a Eurostar back
to Venice.
Piazza di Spagna
Meeting at the Steps
Trevi Fountain (Fontana dei Trevi)
Throw a coin in the fountain...
Fontana delle Tartarughe
One of the Renaissance's little gems
San Luigi dei Francesi
Works of art treasure chest
Piazza Navona
Rome's Favorite Piazza
The iniquity of the people
Remembering the saint founder
Magnificent dome
Santa Maria Sopra Minerva
A magnificent church
Piazza del Campidoglio
Michelangelo's idea
The Colosseum (Colosseo)
The symbol of Rome and the Empire's Largest Arena
Basilica di San Pietro (St. Peter's
Basilica)
The home of Catholicism
Hotel Rialto
Day 5 - Venice
DAY NOTE: After your two day excursion to Florence and Rome
you are most likely in need of an easy day. To recuperate your
energy take a short boat ride over to visit the Chiesa di S. Giorgio
Maggiore. Near Piazza San Marco and your hotel you can visit
the Palazzo Ducale and see the Ponte dei Sospiri. For dinner try
Da Remigio. Whenever I go to Venice I always have pasta al nero
seppia, at least once.
Chiesa di S. Giorgio Maggiore
Palladian church
Bridge of Sighs (Ponte dei Sospiri)
Legendary Bridge
Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale)
Palace of Venetian Governors
Da Remigio
Excellent fish and risottos
4
things to do
restaurants
hotels
nightlife
Itinerary Overview
Hotel Rialto
Day 6 - Venice
DAY NOTE: In the morning visit the Galleria dell’Accademia
Museum. For the afternoon visit the Chiesa di San Salvador,
Piazza San Polo, and the Chiesa di S. Nicola da Tolentino. For
dinner try the Osteria Alla Patatina.
Santa Maria dei Derelitti
16th-century church
Santa Maria del Giglio o Zobenigo
Baroque façade
Antica Bessetta
Good fish and excellent wine
San Polo
One of the most famous squares in Venice
Chiesa di San Salvador
7th-Century Church
Chiesa di S.Nicola da Tolentino
Late fifteenth century church
Galleria dell'Accademia
Collection of Venetian Art
Alla Patatina
Small Osteria
Hotel Rialto
Day 7 - Venice
DAY NOTE: For you last day in Venice you will undoubtedly go
to Piazza San Marco for last minute photos. Before you leave
today go over to visit to out-of-the-way churches, Santa Maria dei
Derelitti and San Francesco della Vigna. Also, near Piazza San
Marco is another church worth visiting, Santa Maria del Giglio. If
you have time left in the day visit the Palazzo Labia.
Palazzo Labia - Salone del Tiepolo
Works by Tiepolo
San Francesco della Vigna
Palladian facade
5
Day 1 - Venice
QUICK NOTE
DAY NOTE: When you arrive in Venice and have consulted your map, you may be tempted to drag your luggage to your hotel. If you
ignore the rest of my itinerary and spend the rest of your time in your hotel room, then please take my advice this once and higher a
water taxi. It is cool, very Venetian, and you will arrive at your hotel in style. Once you start wandering the streets and see some poor
soul wrestling a Samsonite over the top of the Rialto Bridge you will understand what I mean. You are checked-in and ready to explore.
Your first stop in Venice must be Piazza San Marco. Climb to the top of the Campanile for great views and then visit the Basilica di San
Marco and the Galleria of San Marco. Before dinner at La Furatola walk to the Rialto Bridge.
contact:
tel: +39 0412413817
fax: +39 41 520 8289
http://www.basilicasanmarco.
it/
location:
San Marco 328
Venice 30124
hours:
Summer: M- Sa 9:30a-5:30p,
Su 2p-5:30p, Winter: M-Sa
10a-4p, Su 2p-6p
1 Basilica di San Marco
DESCRIPTION: Even before arriving in front of the Byzantine
styled Basilica di San Marco, her many magnificent domes
can be seen from afar announcing their presence and status
in Venice. The story goes, that the remains of St. Mark were
brought, or stolen – depending on your point of view, by the
Venetians from Alexandria to rest in this elaborate burial place
back in the 9th century. On closer observation, you will notice
not all of the columns on the Basilica di San Marco are the
same (some green marble, others not) due to trading with
incoming merchants for the materials to build and decorate
this amazing edifice. History throughout the centuries is woven
into the world-wide known Basilica di San Marco, including the
originally looted Bronze horses being stolen by Napoleon, and
then returned again in 1815. © NileGuide
.
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Day 1 - continued...
contact:
tel: (+39) 041 241 3817
fax: +39 041 270 8334
http://www.basilicasanmarco.i
t/ita/index.bsm
location:
San Marco 328
Venice 30124
hours:
Oct1-Mar31: daily
9.45a-4.30p; Apr1-Sep31
daily: 9.45a-5p
contact:
tel: +39 41 522 5205
location:
Piazza San Marco
Venice 30124
hours:
NNov-Mar, M-F 9.45a-4.30p,
Apr-Oct, M-F 9.45a-5.30p,
Weekends, Holdays 2p-4p
contact:
http://www.turismovenezia.it/e
ng/dynalay.asp
location:
Ruga degli Orefici (Rialto)
Venice 30125
hours:
24 hrs daily
2 San Marco Campanile
DESCRIPTION: Located in the very same Piazza San Marco, for which it
is named after, the San Marco Campanile, or St. Mark's Bell tower, soars
98.5 meters high with spectacular panoramic views of the orange rooftops
of Venice and on a clear day, the snow-capped Alps seem at your very
fingertips. After paying at the entrance, one of the biggest elevators you'll
find in Italy (a normal sized elevator for Americans) swiftly brings you up
the San Marco Campanile to the observatory area where wind speeds
seem to increase exponentially. Originally constructed in 1173, the San
Marco Campanile has had many varied functions throughout the years
such as a lighthouse for incoming ships on the lagoon, a means of tying
up prisoners for torture during Medieval times, and an observatory for
Galileo to demonstrate his telescope in 1609. After suddenly collapsing
in 1902, the San Marco Campanile was reconstructed from its remaining
base, a collection of marble sculpted storyboards called La Loggetta, and
has been firmly standing since its re-inauguration in 1912. © NileGuide
.
3 Basilica di San Marco - Pala d'Oro
e Tesoro
DESCRIPTION: It is not known for certain who made the
mid-14th-century Golden Altar Piece. It is a masterpiece of
engraving that uses Byzantine ancient enamels, which originate
from the pillage of Byzantium in 1204. The Treasure of San
Marco should not be missed. A large part was melted down
to mint money, but what remains can satisfy the curiosity of
even the most demanding visitor, from an artistic and historic
point of view. It can be accessed directly from the basilica. ©
wcities.com
.
4 Ponte di Rialto
DESCRIPTION: Ponte di Rialto is Venice's most famous bridge
arching over the Grande Canal, known as a commercial area
of the city with the busy Rialto Market nearby, filled with bright
colored fruits, vegetables and fish (only open in the morning),
and souvenir shops lined up and down the bridge itself. After
its construction in 1591, the Rialto Bridge remained as the only
bridge connecting the two sides of "the fish" called Venice for
almost 300 years. The Ponte di Rialto is perfect for shopping or
strolling along with gelato in hand while gazing off the bridge at
the passing gondoliers and boats, and postcard perfect shots
of the orange buildings & green water against the pink sky at
sunset. © NileGuide
.
contact:
5 La Furatola
tel: 39 41 520 8594
http://www.venezia-tourism.co
m/en/venice-restaurants/resta DESCRIPTION: This restaurant is located in Calle Lunga San Barnaba. The name, 'furatola'
urant-la-furatola.html
indicates an old shop where they once sold poor man's food. Food is still sold here today, but it's
not for poor people anymore! This is an elegant restaurant which is mainly visited by fashionable
7
location:
Dorsoduro Calle Lunga S.
Barnaba 2869/A
Venice 30122
contact:
tel: 39 41 52 09 16 6
www.rialtohotel.com
location:
San Marco 5149 Ponte Di
Rialto
Venice VE 30124
Venetians and tourists looking for something refined. It is necessary to book. The cuisine is local,
but has been reinterpreted in a creative way. The fish dishes are always very fresh and of excellent
quality. The wine list is superb. © wcities.com
6 Hotel Rialto
DESCRIPTION: Hotel Rialto is a traditional Venetian property
situated adjacent to the Rialto Bridge and within 500 metres
from Saint Mark's Square. Contemporary guestrooms are
decorated in a Venetian style and all come equipped with
satellite television and minibars. Guests can sip cocktails in the
hotel bar before sampling Italian specialties on the terrace of
the hotel restaurant.
.
8
Day 2 - Venice
QUICK NOTE
DAY NOTE: Your second day starts with a tour of Murano and Venetian glass. In the afternoon if you have time walk along the water
toward the Giardini Pubblici to work up an appetite for dinner at Due Colonne.
contact:
ng/dynalay.asp
location:
Isola di Murano
Venice 30141
hours:
Open 24 Hours
contact:
tel: +39 41 73 9586
fax: +39 041 73 9586
http://www.homeandabroad.c
om/viewSiteDetails.ha
location:
Fondamenta Giustinian 8
Venice 30141
hours:
1 Murano
DESCRIPTION: The skilled Glass Blowers are the founders
of this fair sized island called Murano. In 1291, the furnaces
were moved off of the main island to Murano in case they
ever caught fire, making sure the main city of Venice would
still be preserved. To this day, Murano is still known for the
beautiful glass works of art, with many stores allowing tours
and on-looking crowds to watch the intense production of these
delicate pieces. Many quaint restaurants and shops line the
quiet streets of Murano, located just a short 15 minute boat ride
from Venice. © NileGuide
wcities
2 Museo Vetrario - Murano
DESCRIPTION: From milky opalescent to crystal clear, all kinds
of glass, including chandeliers, vases, glasses and mirrors, in
various styles and forms are displayed at this museum. Visitors
can also watch a glassworker in action. Be sure to visit the
glass workshops and famous glass factories in Murano and buy
a piece of authentic Murano glass. It is expensive, but it is also
worth a lot, as the work of a master glassworker is extremely
difficult. Admission to this museum is free. © wcities.com
.
9
M-Tu & Th-Su 10.00-16.00
contact:
tel: +39 41 73 9083
fax: +39 41 73 6844
http://www.ercolemoretti.it/
location:
423 0141 Fondame Navagero
Murano
Venice 30100
hours:
9a-6p M-F
contact:
tel: +39 41 522 5625 / +39 41
240 5211
fax: +39 041 520 0935
http://www.museicivicivenezia
ni.it/
location:
Piazza San Marco 52
Venice 30124
hours:
Mar-Oct: 9a-7p, Nov-Feb:
9a-5p
contact:
tel: 39 41 524 0685
location:
San Polo Campo Sant'
Agostin 2343
Venezia 30125
contact:
tel: 39 41 52 09 16 6
www.rialtohotel.com
location:
Rialto
Venice VE 30124
3 Ercole Moretti
DESCRIPTION: The speciality here is 'murrine', glass jewels
that are typical of Murano. The technique for making these
consists of putting together slivers of multi-coloured glass,
melting them down and then cutting them widthways in order to
obtain the characteristic concentric circle design. The glass is
then used to create extremely beautiful and precious pendants,
table ornaments and more. © wcities.com
.
4 Museo Correr
DESCRIPTION: There is a silent and almost respectful
ambience in this museum. Visitors enter by means of
a staircase, originally built as a grand entrance to the
Napoleonic royal palace. From here, the tour continues
through neoclassical rooms, the Royal Palace, the Canoviana
Collection, Venetian Civilization, Antique Art, and Renaissance
Bronze. There are many sculptures by Canova and decorative
objects by Francesco Hayez. Venezia by Jacopo De' Barbari
can be admired in the entrance. © wcities.com
Photo courtesy of Museo Correr
5 Due Colonne
DESCRIPTION: Both the pub and the surrounding area are quiet. This place is friendly, and
popular with both locals and tourists. Speedy service. Good selection of classic pizzas and draft
and bottled beers. © wcities.com
6 Hotel Rialto
.
10
Day 3 - Florence, Rome
QUICK NOTE
DAY NOTE: Day three is an express tour of Florence. You will have to catch an early train from Venice to Florence to get it all done
in Florence. Schedule an entry time at the Galleria degli Uffizi to avoid a longer wait. After the Uffizi visit the Palazzo Vecchio and the
Loggia dei Lanzi both in Piazza della Signoria. Your afternoon will begin at the Piazza del Duomo with a visit to the Battistero, the
Cathedral, and the Campanile di Giotto. Nearby is the Church Orsanmichele. Before leaving on a train for Rome be sure to visit the
Ponte Vecchio. A Eurostar from Florence to Rome will arrive in less than two hours. Once you have checked-in at your hotel go for
dinner at the Vecchia Roma da Severino il Pugliese.
contact:
tel: 055-238-8651
fax: +39 055 238 8694
http://www.uffizi.firenze.it
location:
Piazzale degli Uffizi 6
Florence 50122
hours:
Tues-Sun 8:15am-7pm. Ticket
window closes 45 min. before
museum
1 Gallerie degli Uffizi (Uffizi Galleries)
DESCRIPTION: The Uffizi is one of the world's great museums, and the
single best introduction to Renaissance painting, with works by Giotto,
Masaccio, Paolo Uccello, Sandro Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Perugino,
Michelangelo, Raphael Sanzio, Titian, Caravaggio, and the list goes
on. The museum is deceptively small. What looks like a small stretch of
gallery space can easily gobble up half a day -- many rooms suffer the
fate of containing nothing but masterpieces. Know before you go that the
Uffizi regularly shuts down rooms for crowd-control reasons -- especially
in summer, when the bulk of the annual 1.5 million visitors stampedes
the place. Of the more than 3,100 artworks in the museum's archives,
only about 1,700 are on exhibit. The painting gallery is housed in the
structure built to serve as the offices (uffizi is Florentine dialect for uffici,
or "offices") of the Medici, commissioned by Cosimo I from Giorgio Vasari
in 1560 -- perhaps his greatest architectural work. The painting gallery
was started by Cosimo I as well and is now housed in the second-floor
rooms that open off a long hall lined with ancient statues and frescoed
with grotesques. Tips for Seeing the Uffizi -- If you have the time, make
two trips to the museum. On your first, concentrate on the first dozen or
Katie Greenaway
11
so rooms and pop by the Greatest Hits of the 16th Century, with works
by Michelangelo, Caravaggio, Raphael, and Titian. Return later for a brief
recap and continue with the rest of the gallery. Be aware that the gift shop
at the end of the galleries closes 20 minutes before the museum. You can
visit it without reentering the museum at any time; if you plan to stay in
the collections until closing, go down to the shop earlier during your visit
and get the guards' attention before you pass through the exit turnstile,
so they'll know you're just popping out to buy a few postcards and will
recognize you when you ask to be let back in. © Frommer's
contact:
tel: +39 55 276 8224
http://www.museumsinflorenc
e.com/musei/Palazzo_vecchi
o.html
location:
piazza della Signoria
Florence 50122
location:
piazza della Signoria
Florence 50122
2 Palazzo Vecchio (Museo)
DESCRIPTION: The palazzo's construction began in 1299 and it was
enlarged repeatedly - in 1343, 1495 and lastly in the 16th century by
Vasari and Buontalenti. It has been the symbol and the political centre
of the city for centuries. The Great room of the Cinquecento stands out,
the work of Cronaca, it was designed as a reception area and decorated
with frescoes celebrating Florentine victories against the other Tuscan
cities and with sculptures depicting the deeds of Hercules by De Rossi.
On the upper floors the Quarters of the elements are noteworthy as are
those of Eleanor of Toledo who was the wife of Cosimo I and to whom the
little chapel by Bronzino is dedicated. The Gigli room and the Audience
room, which has a marble entrance, are sumptuous. On the Mezzanine
there is the Loeser collection of painted sculptures. It is recommended
that you visit the upper balcony where you can enjoy a fabulous view
of Florence. In front of the museum, you'll find a copy of Michelangelo's
David. © wcities.com
Katie Greenaway
3 Loggia dei Lanzi
OUR LOCAL EXPERT SAYS:
Take a stroll through Piazza della Signoria at
night. You can take in the sights while sitting in the
shadow of masterpieces from the Renaissance.
DESCRIPTION: The Loggia dei Lanzi or Loggia della
Signoria is a wide-open gallery of great works of art and
sculpture.  It brings together the piazza with the
Uffizi Gallery flowing down into the Arno River.  As
the Florentines adored this masterpiece, Michelangelo
suggested having loggia encompass the whole Piazza della
Signoria.  The artist or designer of the Loggia dei Lanzi
was Orcagna.  He built it between 1376 and 1382 when
Benci di Cione and Simone Talenti took over.  The name
Loggia dei Lanzi came from the years the Grand Duke Cosimo
I was in power, it was used to keep his Lanzichenecchi(Italian)
or Landsknechts(German).  Shortening it to Lanzi,
these were German mercenary pikemen.  As the Uffizi
was nearly complete, the Loggia's roof was constructed as a
terrace for the Medici so they could watch ceremonies in the
piazza away from the peasants.  The Loggia's roof was
designed by Bernardo Buontalenti. Today, the sculptures
of divine beauty that are located inside are Benvenuto Cellini's
Katie Greenaway
12
Perseus, Giambologna's Rape of the Sabine Woman and
the Rape of Polyxena by Pio Fedi.  Loggia dei Lanzi is
gorgeous at night.  Take a stroll after dinner to see the
Loggia light up.
© NileGuide
contact:
tel: +39 055 2 3320
fax: +39 055 234 6286
http://www.firenzeturismo.it/
location:
piazza del Duomo
Florence 50122
contact:
tel: +39 55 230 2885
fax: +39 055 230 2898
http://www.operaduomo.firen
ze.it/
location:
Piazza San Giovanni
Florence 50129
hours:
M-Sa Summer, 1:30-6:30p;
Su, 8:30a-1:30p; M-Su
Winter: 1:30-5:30p
contact:
tel: +39 55 230 2885
fax: +39 55 2302898
http://www.operaduomo.firen
ze.it/
location:
Piazza Duomo
Florence 50122
4 Piazza del Duomo
DESCRIPTION: Piazza del Duomo is one of the most famous
landmarks in Florence. Truly an architectural piece of beauty, it
encompasses the art and history of medieval Italy, through its
sheer design. A visit to this city is not complete without visiting
the piazza's cathedral 'Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore' whose
dome dominates the skyline. It is no wonder that tourists are
spellbound and spend hours trying to capture these images for
eternity. © wcities.com
.
5 Battistero
DESCRIPTION: Although the Baptistery's precise origins
remain unclear, its foundations are known to date back to
Roman times. The central doors are stunning works of art,
depicting scenes from the Old and New Testament and they
have been called "The Gates of Paradise." Lorenzo Ghiberti
who worked on them from 1403 to 1424 designed these ornate
doors. Inside, the octagonal structure is richly decorated with
Roman columns and gilded column heads. The floor's marble
inlay features Islamic-style patterns and the apse is decorated
with 13th-century mosaics. Coppo di Marcovaldo and Cimabue
were among those involved in the cupola's decorative mosaic
work. © wcities.com
.
6 Campanile di Giotto
DESCRIPTION: Designed by Giotto, the bell tower to the right of Santa
Maria del Fiore cathedral was begun by the artist in 1334 but continued by
Andrea Pisano (who modified part of the design) following Giotto's death
in 1337. Francesco Talenti finally completed it in 1359. Originally the tower
was linked to the Duomo via a passageway situated at the level of the
first cornice but this was demolished before 1437. Reliefs carved on the
side where the passageway once existed are later works by Luca della
Robbia; Andrea Pisano's original stone reliefs can be seen in the Museo
dell'Opera del Duomo. The concepts of universal order and redemption
are recurrent themes; hexagonal tiles on the tower's lower level (now
replaced by copies) portray scenes from daily human life whilst diamondshaped reliefs on the upper level illustrate more ethereal subjects in the
form of the Planets, Virtue, Liberal Arts and the Sacraments. There's no
lift, but climbing the 414 steps to the top of the 85m tower is well worth the
effort! © wcities.com
Campanile di Giotto
13
contact:
tel: 055-284-944
fax: +39 055 234 6286
http://www.discovertuscany.c
om/florence/churches/orsanm
ichele.html
location:
Via Arte della Lana 1
Florence 50122
hours:
Church open erratic hours
(though never open during
riposo). Museum daily
9-9:45am, 10-10:45am, and
11-11:45am (plus Sat-Sun
1-1:45pm)
contact:
tel: 39 6 495 8493
location:
52/54 Viale Manzoni
Rome 00185
7 Orsanmichele
DESCRIPTION: This tall structure halfway down Via dei
Calzaiuoli looks more like a Gothic warehouse than a church
-- which is exactly what it was, built as a granary/grain market
in 1337. After a miraculous image of the Madonna appeared
on a column inside, however, the lower level was turned into
a chapel. The city's merchant guilds each undertook the task
of decorating one of the outside nichelike Gothic tabernacles
around the lower level with a statue of their guild's patron
saint. Masters such as Ghiberti, Donatello, Verrocchio, and
Giambologna all cast or carved masterpieces to set here. Since
1984, these have been removed and are being replaced by
casts as the originals are slowly cleaned and exhibited up on
the second story. Unfortunately, the church now keeps erratic
hours due to a lack of personnel, so there are no set opening
hours; however, you may get lucky and find the doors thrown
open when you pass by (or, though this may take even more
luck, someone might actually answer the phone number below
and give you details on when it will next open). Since it's pretty
nifty, and there's a chance you'll be able to pop in, I'll go ahead
and describe it all. In the chapel's dark interior (emerged in
1999 from a long restoration and entered around the "back"
side on Via dell Arte della Lana) are recently restored 14th- to
16th-century paintings by the likes of Lorenzo di Credi and Il
Poppi. The elaborate Gothic Tabernacle (1349-59) by Andrea
Orcagna looks something like a miniature church, covered
with statuettes, enamels, inset colored marbles and glass,
and reliefs. It protects a luminous 1348 Madonna and Child
painted by Giotto's student Bernardo Daddi. The prominent
statue of the Madonna, Child, and St. Anne to its left is by
Francesco da Sangallo (1522). Across Via dell'Arte della Lana
from the Orsanmichele's main entrance is the 1308 Palazzo
dell'Arte della Lana. This Gothic palace was home to medieval
Florence's most powerful body, the guild of wool merchants,
which employed about one-third of Florence in the 13th and
14th centuries. Up the stairs inside you can cross over the
hanging walkway to the first floor (American second floor) of
Orsanmichele. These are the old granary rooms, now housing
a museum of the statues that once surrounded the exterior.
A few are still undergoing restoration, but eight of the original
sculptures are here, well labeled, including Donatello's marble
St. Mark (1411-13); Ghiberti's bronze St. John the Baptist
(1413-16), the first life-size bronze of the Renaissance; and
Verrocchio's Incredulity of St. Thomas (1473-83). This museum,
too, does not always adhere to its posted hours, as those are
dependent on someone being around to honor them. Still, it's at
least worth a try. © Frommer's
.
8 Vecchia Roma da Severino il Pugliese
DESCRIPTION: A restaurant offering traditional Puglian cuisine, with friendly, homey service.
The Puglian specialties include orecchiette pasta with turnips, rice with potatoes and mussels,
cabbage roulade and coq au vin blanc. For those stuck in Rome to have a taste of the deep south.
© wcities.com
14
hours:
Call for details
contact:
tel: 39 67027808
fax: 39 67027935
http://www.travel.it/roma/bled/
bled.html
location:
40 Via Santa Croce in
Gerusalemme
Rome LA 00185
9 Bled
DESCRIPTION: Housed in an early 19th century villa, this is
a simple and uncomplicated hotel. The staff is efficient and
courteous. Its location near Termini station and the Air Terminal
is convenient for those arriving by train and for those relying on
public transport. The rooms are comfortable and have all the
essentials. © wcities.com
.
15
Day 4 - Rome, Venice
QUICK NOTE
DAY NOTE: No city in Italy can really be seen in one day and Rome is at the top of this list. I have done Rome in one day many times
with friends and family. Stay focused and drink lots of water. You need to see as much of this city as you can in the time that you have.
Rome is my favorite big city in Italy and it is chock full of things to see. From your hotel take the Metro to Piazza di Spagna. From there
work your way to the Fontana di Trevi. As you navigate the streets toward the Panteon, stop and see Sant’Ignazio di Loyola and Santa
Maria Sopra Minerva. Marvel at the Panteon, built nearly a millennium before the Battistero in Florence, with techniques that were
far beyond those available to the Florentines in the Middle Ages. Your next stop is my favorite piazza on the Italian peninsula, Piazza
Navona. Near the piazza is another church well worth visiting, San Luigi dei Francesi. On the way to visit the Piazza del Campidoglio try
to find the Fontana delle Tartarughe. Between the Campidoglio and the Coliseum is the Foro Romano. Time permitting, walk along the
Tiber River to St. Peter’s Basilica, otherwise take a cab or take the Metro. After you have visited St. Peter’s you can catch a Metro to get
back to Termini, collect your luggage and catch a Eurostar back to Venice.
contact:
tel: +39 6 48 8991 (Tourist
Information)
fax: +39 6 481 9316 (tourist
information)
http://www.piazzadispagna.it/
location:
piazza di Spagna
Rome 00187
1 Piazza di Spagna
DESCRIPTION: An incredible, almost theatrical square with
the lovely Spanish steps leading up to the Chiesa di Trinità dei
Monti. One of the most important fashion shows is held here,
the steps being used as a catwalk. It is now an international
meeting point. The fountain known as the 'Barcaccia' (boat)
was commissioned by Urbano Barberini to commemorate
the alliance made with the King of France, whose coat of
arms can be seen on Trinità dei Monti. The square leads into
several famous streets, Via Dei Condotti, Via Frattina and
Via Borgognona with their luxurious boutiques, and Via Del
Babuino with its antique shops. © wcities.com
.
16
contact:
http://www.romaturismo.it/v2/
allascopertadiroma/en/itinerar
i01.html
location:
piazza di Trevi
Rome 00187
contact:
tel: +39 6 48 8991 (Tourist
Information)
fax: +39 6 481 9316
location:
piazza Mattei
Rome 00186
2 Trevi Fountain (Fontana dei Trevi)
DESCRIPTION: Tradition has it that throwing a coin over
your left shoulder into the fountain guarantees a swift return
to the world's most beautiful city. Anita Ekberg's dip in it was
immortalized in Fellini's 'La Dolce Vita', and Italian actor Toto
even sold it to an American, passing himself off as its owner.
Earlier it was the setting for the award-winning "Three Coins in
the Fountain" motion picture, ensuring its popularity worldwide.
Designed by Nicola Salvi for Pope Clemente XII, it was
completed in the second half of the 1700s. The statues in the
centre represent Neptune supported by Tritons on either side
while rococo-style Poli Palace provides the perfect backdrop. ©
wcities.com
.
3 Fontana delle Tartarughe
DESCRIPTION: This lovely fountain from the late 16th century was
ordered by the Mattei family to Giacomo della Porta's design. The statues,
on the other hand, are by Taddeo Landini. The turtles that gave their name
to the fountain, the work of an anonymous sculptor, were added only a
century later. Some think that their creator may even be Bernini, but the
evidence is thin; it was perhaps one of his pupils, which would justify any
similarities between this work and the work of the illustrious sculptor. ©
wcities.com
wcities
contact:
tel: +39 6 68 8271
location:
Via Santa Giovanna d'Arco 5
Rome 00186
hours:
Office: 8a-12:30p,
3:30p-7:30p M-W, F-Su &
holidays
contact:
http://www.romecity.it/Piazza_
navona.htm
location:
piazza Navona
Rome 00186
4 San Luigi dei Francesi
DESCRIPTION: This national French church holds the tombs of many famous French people.
Caravaggio is one artist who features in this beautiful Renaissance church. There is a wooden
pulpit with painted panels, fairly unusual for Roman churches; the façade was carried out by
Domenico Fontana following a design by Giacomo della Porta; San Luigi is immortalised in a fresco
by Natoire, and Il Domenichino frescoed Santa Cecilia's chapel. © wcities.com
5 Piazza Navona
DESCRIPTION: During the Christmas season this square is
packed with stalls selling toys, sweets and decorations for the
Nativity scene or Christmas tree, making it a favourite spot for
children. Its unusual shape recalls the time of Domitian, who
built a stadium for equestrian displays here. The Fountain of the
Rivers, with the obelisk, and the Fountain of the Moor, with the
god of the sea, at the centre of the square, are both by Bernini.
© wcities.com
.
17
location:
piazza Navona
Rome 00186
6 Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi
DESCRIPTION: The Fountain of the Four Rivers is in the
centre of Piazza Navona. It was built between 1648 and 1651
from marble and travertine by Bernini. The fountain represents
a large rock, which seems to emerge from the water on which
an Egyptian obelisk from the Roman era stands. The rock
is inhabited by allegorical animals and plants and decorated
with the coat of arms of the Pamphili family. Four large statues
represent rivers of the then-known areas of the world: the
Danube for Europe, the Ganges for Asia, the Rio de la Plata
for America, and the Nile for Africa. The last is covering its
eyes so as not to see the iniquities taking place before it in the
square, the commerce practised by merchants and tradesmen.
© wcities.com
contact:
tel: +39 6 679 4406
fax: +39 6 679 0922
http://www.chiesasantignazio
.org/
location:
8a Via del Caravita
Rome 00186
wcities
7 Sant'Ignazio di Loyola
DESCRIPTION: This church was built in the first decade of the 17th
century to pay homage to the founder of the Jesuit Order. The magnificent
splendor of this chapel is typical of the period. Inside, you can admire the
precious stones, gilding, marble and stucco work. For the frescoes they
called upon the artist Andrea Pozzo, who designed the 'trompe l'oeil' effect
ceiling featuring a cupola. A cupola was designed but never built, due
to the proximity of the monastery of Dominican friars, as it would have
blocked the light in their living quarters. © wcities.com
.
contact:
tel: +39 6 6830 0230
http://www.romecity.it/Pan_th
eon.htm
location:
piazza della Rotonda
Rome 00186
hours:
9a-7:30p M-Sa, 9a-5:30p Su
8 The Pantheon
DESCRIPTION: Commissioned by Marcus Agrippa, restored
by Domitian, and subsequently rebuilt by Hadrian (who added
the dome) before being turned into a church in the early 7th
century by Pope Boniface IV. The building's sole source of light
is the opening at the dome's apex (the oculus); according to
popular legend, this formed the base for the bronze pinecone
that is now in the Vatican's 'Pigna' courtyard, where it is used
as a fountain. Many famous Italians are buried in the Pantheon,
including Renaissance painter Raphael and King Vittorio
Emanuele I. © wcities.com
.
18
contact:
tel: +39 6 699 0339
fax: +39 6 699 0672
http://www.basilicaminerva.it/
location:
Piazza della Minerva 42
Rome 00186
hours:
8a-7p M-Su
contact:
http://www.romaturismo.it/v2/
allascopertadiroma/en/itinerar
i05.html
location:
piazza del Campidoglio
Rome 00186
contact:
tel: +39 6 700 4261 / +39 6
700 5469
http://www.museidiroma.com/
colosseo.htm
location:
piazza del Colosseo
Rome 00184
hours:
9 Santa Maria Sopra Minerva
DESCRIPTION: Piazza della Minerva is just off Via della Minerva behind
the Pantheon. The name of the church, Santa Maria sopra Minerva, was
given by the church's position as it is believed it was built over the Roman
temple dedicated to Minerva Calcidica. Work began on the church in
1280 but the façade was only completed in 1453. In fact this was meant
to be temporary but it has remained unaltered despite many plans up
until the 19th century to modify it. The interior is the only example of
Gothic architecture in Rome. The 3 naves are crowned by cross vaults
resting on marble pillars, but the most arresting sight is the decoration
which is a true work of art. The chapels are decorated with frescoes and
mosaics by artists like Melozzo da Forlì, Andrea Bregno, Verrocchio,
Giuliano da Maiano, and Filippo Lippi but just as worthy are the statue of
Christ Risen (also known as Christ the Redeemer) by Michelangelo who
depicted Christ with the symbols of his martyrdom embracing the Cross,
the funerary monuments of Popes Leo X and Clement VII by Antonio
da Sangallo the Younger behind the altar, and the Tomb of Cardinal
Domenico Pimentel designed by Bernini. The funerary monument and
sarcophagus of St. Catherine of Siena were restored for the Jubilee. On
one side of the church can be seen the former convent which was once
the offices of the Ministry of Education and now of the Ministry of Scientific
and Technological Research. It also holds the Casanatense Library with
texts from the history of the Church. In the centre of the square in front
of the church stands a small Egyptian obelisk known as the Pulcin della
Minerva. © wcities.com
Photo courtesy ofSanta
Maria sopra Minerva
A Piazza del Campidoglio
DESCRIPTION: Reorganisation of Piazza del Campidoglio began in
1539 as part of a plan undertaken by Pope Paul III. It was the first square
created as part of a plan conceived by Michelangelo in which a space
was created between Palazzo Senatorio and Palazzo dei Conservatori
bounded by a new symmetrical building. The square is in the shape of
a trapezoid with the Palazzo Senatorio on the longer side (the seat of
the city council's administrative offices) and the Capitoline Museums on
either side. Michelangelo also designed the monumental flight of steps
that leads to the square on either side of which were the Dioscuri designed
by Giacomo della Porta. Michelangelo also designed the pavement in
the centre of which stands the equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius
which survived the Middle Ages as it was thought that it represented the
Emperor Constantine, the protector of the Christian religion. © wcities.com
.
B The Colosseum (Colosseo)
DESCRIPTION: No visit to Rome is complete without having
seen its magnificent Colosseum, a vast amphitheatre with
seating for 55,000 that was designed as a horse racing circuit
and arena for animal fighting and gladiatorial battles. Upon its
completion, spectacular 100-day celebrations were organized
as part of the opening ceremony in 72 AD. Its name is believed
.
19
9a-7:30p end Mar-end Aug,
9a-7p Sep, 9a-6:30p Oct,
9a-4:30p end Oct-mid Feb,
9a-5p mid Feb-end Mar
contact:
tel: +39 (0)6 48 8991 (Tourist
Information)
fax: +39 (0)6 481 9316
(Tourism Board)
http://www.romaturismo.com/
v2/operatoriprofessionali/it/sp
ietro.html
location:
piazza San Pietro
Rome 00193
hours:
24 hrs
contact:
tel: 39 41 52 09 16 6
www.rialtohotel.com
location:
Rialto
Venice VE 30124
to come from Nero's enormous statue of Colossus that stood
close by. © wcities.com
C Basilica di San Pietro (St. Peter's
Basilica)
DESCRIPTION: People come by the millions each year to
receive the Pope's blessing, traditionally given on Sundays at
noon. St Peter's has undergone many transformations since the
original Constantine basilica of AD320. The top of its majestic
dome (designed by Michelangelo), provides the best vantage
point from which to marvel at Bernini's magnificent colonnade
surrounding the square, the gilded bronze canopy above the
altar and Michelangelo's Pietà. Bramante, Pietro da Cortona
and Canova are just a handful of the many other artists who
worked together on this monumental basilica's decoration and
design. © wcities.com
.
D Hotel Rialto
.
20
Day 5 - Venice
QUICK NOTE
DAY NOTE: After your two day excursion to Florence and Rome you are most likely in need of an easy day. To recuperate your energy
take a short boat ride over to visit the Chiesa di S. Giorgio Maggiore. Near Piazza San Marco and your hotel you can visit the Palazzo
Ducale and see the Ponte dei Sospiri. For dinner try Da Remigio. Whenever I go to Venice I always have pasta al nero seppia, at least
once.
contact:
tel: +39 41 528 9900
ng/dynalay.asp
location:
Isola di San Giorgio Maggiore
Venice 30133
hours:
Daily 10a-12:30p,
2:15p-5:30p
contact:
ni.it/frame.asp
location:
San Marco
Venice 30124
hours:
1 Chiesa di S. Giorgio Maggiore
DESCRIPTION: The only building on the San Giorgio Maggiore
island, this church was built in 1566 AD. It is built inside a
Benedictine monastery (that was erected in 1000 AD) in
accordance with a plan by Andrea Palladio. The bright interior
is covered with paintings by Carpaccio and Tintoretto, such as
'L'ultima Cena' and the 'Raccolta della Manna'. From the bell
tower, there is a magnificent view of San Marco. © wcities.com
.
2 Bridge of Sighs (Ponte dei
Sospiri)
DESCRIPTION: Legends, passions, hopes and despair
form the emotional history of the ever famous Ponte dei
Sospiri, or Bridge of Sighs, a must see for every visitor to
Venice. Connecting the Palazzo delle Prigioni (Palazzo of
the Prisoners) and the Palazzo Ducale (Doge's Palace), the
Bridge of Sighs is where prisoners going from their trial and
.
21
24 hrs
contact:
tel: +39 041 271 5911
fax: +39 041 528 5028
ni.it/frame.asp
location:
San Marco 1
Venice 30124
hours:
Nov-Mar Daily 9a-5p; Apr-Oct
Daily 9a-7p
contact:
tel: 39 41 523 0089
location:
Castello Ponte dei Greci 3416
Venice 30131
contact:
tel: 39 41 52 09 16 6
www.rialtohotel.com
location:
Rialto
Venice VE 30124
conviction in the Doge's Palace, would look across the bridge
at their last glimpse of freedom before entering the prison and
let out a sigh. Over the years it has gained a more hopeful
out look being known as the bridge where if two lovers kiss
under it, most likely in a romantic gondola, their love will last. To
"walk the last walk" over the Bridge of Sighs, you will need to
take a tour of the Palazzo Ducale or Palazzo delle Prigioni. ©
NileGuide
3 Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale)
DESCRIPTION: Located next to the Basilica di San Marco, the
Doge's Palace has been the symbol of Venice's political life and
public administration for hundreds of years. The building has
been continuously evolving into its present form since 1340,
even though its fundations date back to the early Middle Ages
(10th century). Considered a masterpiece of the gothic style, it
has been destroyed many times, most notably during the fire
of 1106. It was rebuilt by Barbarossa in 1177 and modified over
the time by the different Dogi reigning in Venice. More than
a palace, the Palazzo Ducale is an extensive infrastructure,
comprising the apartments of the doge (often used as an
exhibition space), the government quarters and the palace of
justice. When visiting the palace, many parts are worth the
detour. In the Museo dell'Opera, you'll see the remaining pieces
of the building's medieval facades as well as a collection of
sculptures dating from the 14th and 15th Centuries. Before
heading towards the Doge's appartments, you'll enter the
magnificent courtyard. Take some time to walk alongside the
Loggias to enjoy the various angles of the Palazzo. In addition
to the Institutional Chambers and the Prisons, take some time
to see the great collection of weapons and armaments in the
Armoury. © NileGuide
.
4 Da Remigio
DESCRIPTION: This osteria is located in Calle del Magazzen
near Santa Maria Formosa. Da Remigio is characterised by
professional staff and good service. The menu features risottos,
pasta dishes and appetizers made from fish from the lagoon
and shellfish. The wine list is good, and offers a range of local
and national varieties. © wcities.com
.
5 Hotel Rialto
.
22
23
Day 6 - Venice
QUICK NOTE
DAY NOTE: In the morning visit the Galleria dell’Accademia Museum. For the afternoon visit the Chiesa di San Salvador, Piazza San
Polo, and the Chiesa di S. Nicola da Tolentino. For dinner try the Osteria Alla Patatina.
contact:
tel: +39 (0)41 529 8711
(Tourist Information)
location:
Campo San Polo
Venice 30123
hours:
10a-5p M-Sa, 1p-5p Su
contact:
tel: 041-523-6717
http://www.chiesasansalvado
r.it
location:
Sestiere di S.Marco 4835
Venice 30124
hours:
Daily 9am-noon and 3-6pm
1 San Polo
DESCRIPTION: San Polo and Santa Margherita are the largest
piazzas in Venice. Coming from San Toma the church is barely
visible and the bell tower, detached from the building, is visible
from the other side of the 3m-wide street. In the oratory hangs
'Via Crucis' by Tiepolo. © wcities.com
.
2 Chiesa di San Salvador
DESCRIPTION: The interior is classic Renaissance, built by Giorgio
Spavento, Tullio Lombardo, and Sansovino between 1508 and 1534; the
facade is 1663 baroque. It includes a pair of sculptures (Charity and Hope)
by an elderly Jacopo Sansovino, who may also have designed the third
altar, which supports one of the church's treasures, Titian's Annunciation
(1556). Titian also painted the Transfiguration (1560) on the high altar. Ask
the sacristan to lower the painting so that you can see the ornate 14thcentury silver reredos (ornamental partition) hidden behind. In the right
transept rests Bernardino Contino's tomb for Caterina Cornaro (d. 1510),
Benvenuti
24
the one-time queen of Cyprus who abdicated her throne to Venice and
ended up with Asolo as a consolation prize. © Frommer's
contact:
tel: +39 (0)41 529 8711 (Le
Informazioni Turistiche)
ng/dynalay.asp
location:
Campo dei Tolentini
Venice 30124
3 Chiesa di S.Nicola da Tolentino
DESCRIPTION: This church was built by V. Scamozzi in the last 10 years
of the 16th century. It houses paintings by Palma il Giovane and the
Padovanino. Mass is held on a regular basis; call ahead for further details
or drop in here for a day filled with prayers. © wcities.com
hours:
Call for details
.
contact:
tel: +39 41 522 2247
ng/dynalay.asp
location:
Dorsoduro 1050
Venice 30121
hours:
9a-2p M, 9a-7p Tu-Sa, 9a-8p
Su
contact:
tel: 39 41 523 7238
location:
2742 Sestiere San Polo
Venezia 30123
contact:
tel: 39 41 52 09 16 6
www.rialtohotel.com
location:
Rialto
Venice VE 30124
4 Galleria dell'Accademia
DESCRIPTION: Containing the world's finest collection of
Venetian paintings, the Galleria dell' Accademia houses works
of art by Mantegna, Bellini, Carpaccio, Titian, Tintoretto,
Veronese, Tiepolo and Canaletto – arranged for the most part
in chronological order from room to room. A sophisticated
tour through Byzantine, Gothic, Pre-Renaissance, High
Renaissance, and Baroque art, the Galleria dell'Accademia is
easily reached by crossing over the wooden Academia Bridge,
having been named after the Galleria itself, residing on the
Grande Canal. © NileGuide
.
5 Alla Patatina
DESCRIPTION: This trattoria is located on the bridge which leads into Campo San Polo. Its name
comes from the old tradition of serving chips on cocktail sticks accompanied by a glass of wine.
Now Alla Patatina is a pretty trattoria. It is small and welcoming. It is worth a visit because of
the quality of its food. It serves typical Venetian dishes such as meatballs, fried vegetables in
breadcrumbs, and also pasta dishes. This can all be washed down with a glass of local red or white
wine. © wcities.com
6 Hotel Rialto
.
25
Day 7 - Venice
QUICK NOTE
DAY NOTE: For you last day in Venice you will undoubtedly go to Piazza San Marco for last minute photos. Before you leave today
go over to visit to out-of-the-way churches, Santa Maria dei Derelitti and San Francesco della Vigna. Also, near Piazza San Marco is
another church worth visiting, Santa Maria del Giglio. If you have time left in the day visit the Palazzo Labia.
contact:
tel: +39 41 524 2812
ng/dynalay.asp
location:
275 Campo San Geremia
Venice 30131
hours:
Call for details
contact:
tel: +39 41 529 8711 (Le
Informazioni Turistiche)
ng/dynalay.asp
location:
2786 Castello
Venice 30122
hours:
1 Palazzo Labia - Salone del Tiepolo
DESCRIPTION: Built from Istria stone in the 17th century, this
palace is characterized by three facades that are decorated
with eagles, from which one can see the Canale Grande.
Tiepolo painted a fresco on the walls and ceiling of the Salone
to mark the occasion of a marriage of someone from the Labia
family. This is now the headquarters of the Veneto region's
RAI and can only be visited by appointment, on Wednesday,
Thursday and Friday; call for details. Admission is free. ©
wcities.com
.
2 San Francesco della Vigna
DESCRIPTION: According to tradition, toward the middle of the
13th century, the son of the Doge Pietro, Marco Ziani, donated
a vineyard to the Friars and the church was built here by
Jacopo Sansovino 300 years later. The façade, commissioned
by the patriarch of Aquileia, was later restored by Palladio. It
seems that long before, on the same site, there was the church
of San Marco, to commemorate the place where San Marco
.
26
Call for details
location:
Salizzada Santi Giovanni e
Paolo
Venice 30123
hours:
Su 10a-5p , M-Sa 1p 5p
was met by an angel on his way back from Aquileia. The sober
interior houses paintings by Veronesi and Bellini. © wcities.com
3 Santa Maria dei Derelitti
DESCRIPTION: Due to its location adjacent to a hospital, this church is
also known as the 'Ospedaleto'. Slightly obscured by the narrow street
on which it stands, the beautiful building dates back to the 17th century.
Designed by B. Longhena, it was paid for by B. Cagnoni. Inside are
several paintings thought to be by Tiepolo. © wcities.com
.
contact:
tel: +39 41 522 1188
location:
Campo Santa Maria Del
Giglio O Zobenigo
Venice 30124
hours:
10a-5p M-Sa, 1p-5p Su
4 Santa Maria del Giglio o Zobenigo
DESCRIPTION: A short walk from the Fenice theatre and Gritti's
residence stands this luxury hotel. The Gothic façade, recently restored to
its original splendor, is adorned with 4 statues representing the Barbero
family. On the lower part of the façade there are maps of fortresses and
inside are paintings by Tintoretto and Rubens. © wcities.com
.
contact:
tel: 39 41 72 1687
fax: 39 41 72 1687
location:
Santa Croce 1395
Venice 30121
5 Antica Bessetta
DESCRIPTION: This restaurant is located in Salizada de Ca'Zusto, near Campo San Giacomo da
L'Orio. The service is good, and this is a popular place. The specialities are fish dishes. The wine
list is superb, with excellent reds, fruity whites, and prosecco. © wcities.com
27
My List
location:
Piazzale Michelangelo
Florence 50125
1 Piazzale Michelangelo
OUR LOCAL EXPERT SAYS:
"Bring a picnic lunch or dinner and enjoy the sunset
with someone special."
DESCRIPTION: The vista which one can see the whole
valley of Florence and of the surrounding hills is a
must see.  The climb up is rewarding, the view is
breathtaking.  There are buses available to take you to
Piazzale Michelangelo.  Tourists, tourist groups and tour
buses all congregate at this panoramic view.  Vendors
set up early in the morning with cool beverages for the parched
tourists and souvenirs for the eager shoppers.  A sunset
visit is for the romantics, bringing a wine bottle and gazing at
the florentine sky as it ends another day.  There is no bad
time to visit Piazzale Michelangelo, there is always something
to see. © NileGuide
Katie Greenaway
28
Florence Snapshot
Local Info
Florence is full of culture to offer the new
traveler. The art and architecture is what
sets Florence apart from the other cities in
Italy. From theDuomo to thePonte Vecchio
toSan Miniato, there is so much to see
and explore. The wonderment of Florence
flows over its visitors bringing smiles to their
faces. Each neighborhood has something
to show off as well. Santa Croce holds
the leather shops as it's trademark. San
Frediano has the artisan shops that have
been operating for centuries. Campo di
Marte expresses anything and everything
about Viola, the color of the Fiorentina
football(soccer) team. The markets are
a token viewpoint of how the locals live.
There are markets all over the city in
every neighborhood. Each having their
own personality and locals that have been
coming for many years. The one thing
that is great about Florence is that you
can easily get lost and end up finding a
treasure. There are always little streets that
nobody ever sees and shops that are kept a
secret. Explore the city because there is so
much more to see than the Ponte Vecchio.
Enjoy the traditions of the Fiorentini, such
as having a caffe at the bar around 11am
when Piazza Repubblica is bustling. On
Sundays, take a stroll through the center
and window shop. On Saturday, shop
at the local markets and enjoy chatter
of Italian in your ear. Florence's main
attractions consists of the Duomo, Ponte
Vecchio and theUffizi Gallery. During
the high season these places are filled
with visitors and sometimes it takes a
while to see. Plan ahead and enjoy these
attractions in a calm and timely matter so
not to rush your visit.
Florence is known for it's secrets and little
treasures that are found throughout the
city. For example, have you ever noticed
the tiny wine doors in the walls of the
Palazzo's? These wine doors were made
for the rich to sell their wine to the peasants
on the streets of Florence. When the local
wealthy families had excess wine from
the harvest they would sell it out of these
windows. What you would do is knock on
the door and slide the money in as they
opened it. Then the person behind the door
will then fill a glass of wine to go. Some
of the windows around the center still are
in it's authentic wooden structure others
have been boarded up. Another fact about
Florence, if you look around in the center
of Florence, at all the big Palazzo's and
smaller buildings as well. You will notice
some of the windows that are missing.
The whole frame of the window is there but
the window is missing. Italians were taxed
higher when they had so many windows.
So they filled in each window that they
didn't want to pay an extra tax on.
The most famous landmarks in Florence
are the Ponte Vecchio(Old Bridge), Il
Duomo and The Uffizi Gallery. The Ponte
Vecchio is the oldest bridge in Florence,
that currently has gold and silver shop
aligning the bridge. Previously housing
butchers, the Ponte Vecchio holds onto the
tradition of gold and silver shops making it
a very posh street to purchase your goods
on. Il Duomo(Santa Maria del Fiore) is
what brings flocks of people to Florence
every year. The gothic style church was
begun in 1296 with the design from Arnolfo
di Cambio and the dome was completed in
1436 by Filippo Brunelleschi. The church
has one of Giorgio Vasari's famous fresco
which covers the inside of the dome.
The Uffizi Gallery is yet another attraction
most visitors look to visit when arriving in
Florence. From Da Vinci to Caravaggio,
you have a pick of the great works of the
Renaissance period.
San Giovanni(Duomo)
San Giovanni takes its name from San
Giovanni Battista(St John the Baptist),
patron saint of Florence, in whose
honor the Baptistery was built. The
historic city center(centro storico) is
most representative of Florence. The
layout of the district follows a road
system created by the Romans(known
as thecardus anddecumanus system).
In thecentro storico, you will see the
enormous, imposing structure of the
cathedral Santa Maria del Fiore, referred to
mostly commonly as the Duomo(from the
Latindomus, meaning house of God), with
its cupola designed by Filippo Brunelleschi,
a beautiful dome that adds splendor to the
city skyline. The city has also preserved
its medieval network of streets, lined with
regular, geometric Renaissance palaces
such as the Palazzo Strozzi and Palazzo
Medici-Riccardi, which once belonged to
Florence's powerful, oligarchic families.
Florence is divided into five districts and
the center is divided into four sections(San
Giovanni, Santa Croce, Santa Maria
Novella and Santo Spirito). The university
and the Tribunale di Firenze(which is
housed in the Complesso di San Filippo
Neri) are also in this district.
Santa Maria Novella
Named after the Santa Maria Novella
Basilica- a Dominican basilica and
important cultural center during the Middle
Ages, the district of Santa Maria Novella
covers the area west of the train station
where a majority of affordable hotels and
the city's largest park is located. The train
station of the same name(designed in
1932 by the young architect Giovanni
Michelucci) is also situated nearby. Not
far from the station is the Fortezza da
Basso, a former stronghold of the city which
is now used as an important center for
conferences, conventions and exhibitions.
The zone is also home to the Parco delle
Cascine, one of the city's green oases. In
this district also lies exclusive boutiques
that are concentrated in a few of the
most well-known streets, such as via de'
Tornabuoni and via della Vigna Nuova. Via
de' Tornabuoni is famous for being home
to some of Italy's most prestigious designer
boutiques e.g. Versace and the Florentine
Salvatore Ferragamo.
Santa Croce
Santa Croce is named after Santa Croce
church, a medieval Franciscan basilica.
The National Central Library(Biblioteca
Nazionale Centrale di Firenze) is also
located here.
Santo Spirito(Oltrarno)
The entire stretch of the side of the river
opposite the majority of the city's tourist
attractions, the Oltrarno is home to many
locals, small eateries and amazing tourist
sights such as San Frediano to San
Niccolò. At its heart is probably one of the
most incredible Renaissance churches and
piazzas: the Piazza Santo Spirito, which
has retained much of its historic charm
and is filled with workshops of the city's
traditional artisans. This piazza is the place
for parties on summer evenings, bringing
together young Florentines and foreigners,
many of whom live in this area. The
Palazzo Pitti with its old Medicean garden
and the Boboli Garden, are both in Oltrarno.
The famous Piazzale Michelangelo(with
29
Florence Snapshot continued
its panoramic view) is also in this district.
From here, it is possible to see one of the
few remaining stretches of medieval wall
around the Belvedere that was spared from
demolition in the 19th Century. Included in
this is the lovely medieval gate of the Porta
Romana.
Campo di Marte& Fiesole
The Campo di Marte is located outside of
what used to the be the medieval city wall
and is home to many historical buildings
dating back to the early 20th Century, as
well as to many modern stone and cement
apartment blocks which were built after
World War Two. There are also numerous
sports venues, athletic facilities and the
Stadio Artemio Franchi, Fiesole, and the
Bellariva zone are close by; these are
swathes of Piagentina countryside that
always induced feelings of nostalgia in
Tuscan painters.
Gavinana& Galluzzo
Gavinana and Galluzzo are south of the
Arno and lead to the well-known Chianti
wine region. On the southwestern side
lies Galluzzo, famous for its Carthusian
monastery.
Isolotto& Legnaia
Combining areas of the city that were
developed during the 1960s and 1970s(and
are still expanding!), Isolotto and Legnaia
are home to commuters and enormous
American hotel chains. The Isolotto district
was once the scene of various clashes and
social unrest during the 1960s.
Rifredi
Rifredi in the northwestern part of the city
where, by the 15th Century, the Medici had
already constructed some of their many
country villas, among which Villa di Careggi,
the villas of Castello and La Petraia in
the Castello. In this district there are also
several industrialized, residential zones,
such as Novoli, Firenze Nova, Brozzi,
Le Piagge and l'Olmatello. Brozzi, the
zone is host to many Chinese and African
immigrants. The influx of immigrants means
that even a city like Florence cannot live
forever in the past but must create a new
multi-ethnic history.
© NileGuide
History
The history of Florence stretches back
as far as the 8th Century BCE when a
primitive settlement lived in the valley,
close to the Arno."Florentia" is recorded
as an official Roman colony in 59 BCE
and was designed according to the typical
Roman road system, which can be seen
in many Italian cities today. There are two
principal roads: thecardus descends from
the Baptistery to Via Roma and continues
on to Via Calimala, while thedecumanus
stretches from via del Corso to via degli
Speziali until it reaches via degli Strozzi.
The Forum(public meeting place and
market) was built at the point where the
roads meet, on what is now the Piazza
della Repubblica. During Roman rule,
Florence was the most important city in
Roman Tuscany.
Florentia was invaded by numerous tribes
in the following centuries: Goths,"Silicone",
Ostrogoths and Longobards. Many
inhabitants adopted Christianity at the
time of the Silicone, and the first churches
appeared outside the Roman walls of
Florentia: San Lorenzo and Santa Felicita
were built during the 4th Century CE and
can be visited today.
Charlemagne's arrival put an end to the
colony's expansion. Buildings were still
constructed however, and the Baptistery
dates back to this time. The city flourished
in the 9th and 10th Centuries, a great deal
of money was spent on the construction
of many religious buildings, e.g. the
Badia Fiorentina. Many public works were
undertaken, including the building of the city
walls in 1078. Florentia was a cultural and
economic success!
Florence's wealth and power grew at
an enormous pace; a second set of
city walls had to be built; the district of
Oltrarno became part of the city and
Romanesque-style architecture ruled(e.g.
San Miniato and Santi Apostoli churches).
Florentine craftsmen became involved
in textiles(beginning with the trading of
wool and silk), which lead to gradual
urbanization. Political tension began to
rear its ugly head in the 13th Century as
two political factions(the Guelphs and the
Ghibellines) fought for power. At the end
of the 13th Century, there was something
of a cultural revolution. A major player in
this revolution was the architect Arnolfo
di Cambio who designed the Palazzo dei
Priori(which became the Palazzo della
Signoria a century later and then the
Palazzo Vecchio) and also started work
on the reconstruction of Santa Maria del
Fiore, which was completed in successive
centuries. Arnolfo also continued with the
construction of the third and final set of city
walls.
The city was devastated by plague in 1348,
and political conflicts were still rife. The
Ciompi Revolt of 1378 occurred as a result
of the people's frustration—the poor reacted
against their unjust governor. Meanwhile,
Florentine merchants and bankers were
already working hard to increase their
wealth in order to attain power over the
nobility.
Lorenzo de'Medici played an important
role in Florence's history; he strengthened
the political interests of the nobility, while
dedicating himself to his love of the Arts
and philosophy. The city underwent a
cultural rebirth. After Lorenzo's death
in 1492, the city came under the harsh,
puritanical rule of the fanatical Dominican
friar, Girolamo Savonarola, who was
elected to the leadership of the Republic.
He was so unpopular for his preachings
that he was burned at the stake six years
later by angry citizens. The leadership of
the city was unstable for several years
after that with the arrival of French troops
under King Charles VIII, but the de'Medici
clan regained power and Florence had
her first Duke in 1530, and then Grand
Duke in 1569. The succession of the Grand
Dukes of the Medici family continued
until the end of the 18th century, but
Florence gradually lost the central role
it had occupied in preceding centuries.
The last heir of the Medici's handed over
power and all the family's riches to the
House of Lorena, whose rule continued
until 1859, when Florence was united
with the rest of Italy(which later became
the Kingdom of Italy). Florence was
only the capital of this kingdom for a few
years(1865-1871) and the court transferred
its official residence to the Palazzo Pitti.
A lot of urban design and restructure took
place during the 19th century, including the
construction of embankments along the
Arno and piazzas in the centre of the new
districts of Barbano and Mattonaia(which
are now Piazza dell'Indipendenza and
Piazza D'Azeglio). The"arnolfiane" wall
and the Jewish Ghetto(which was situated
in the current location of the Piazza della
30
Repubblica) demolished to make way for a
series of ring roads which were to lead to
the Piazzale Michelangelo and the Piazza
della Repubblica.
World War Two had a devastating effect
on Florence. The city sustained many
damages, especially to its bridges and the
area inside the Ponte Vecchio. The flood of
1966 further hindered the preservation of
valuable Florentine treasures, resulting in
a restoration process that will be on-going
well into the 21st and 22nd Centuries.
© NileGuide
Hotel Insights
Italians say that it will certainly take you
more than a day to drink in the beauty of
Florence, you will need to stay for at least a
long or extended weekend. It is also true to
say that it can be a problem to find a room
in Florence, especially if you decide to visit
on the spur of the moment. To save yourself
unwanted trauma, it is always best to book
in advance. Florence is always popular with
tourists and often the more cost-effective
hotels are full in November. You will also
find that hotel prices are high even during
low season.
If you decide to drive to Florence, take
note that the municipal police will not allow
you to enter the city unless you have a
hotel booking or unless you need to unload
your luggage. If you must use a car, it is
important to stay at a hotel that has parking.
Santa Maria Novella
Many of the city's hotels are located in this
centrally-located district; close to the train
station and all the tourist attractions. If you
want to stay near the splendor of the Santa
Maria Novella, then try Hotel Aprile. Five
star hotels are sprinkled throughout the
city and some of the best of these hotels
include: the Grand Hotel and the Westin
Excelsior,(both are in piazza d'Ognissanti)
these are the places where the VIPs and
politicians stay when they come to visit
the city. The Villa Medici has an enticing
swimming pool, and is close to the Piazza
della Repubblica, as is the Helvetia&
Bristol. The Croce di Malta faces the
Piazza Santa Maria Novella. The Astoria
Palazzo Gaddi is inside a beautiful palazzo
which has glorious ceilings decorated
with frescoes. If you arrive in Florence by
train, you will find many hotels around the
Stazione Santa Maria Novella that are
either two or three star. Via Panzani(leading
to Piazza del Duomo) and Via Nazionale,
have a wide choice of reasonably priced
hotels, many of these are family run
establishments, housed in historic palazzi.
The Annabella and the Nizza are only a few
of the long list of hotels that will welcome
you and treat you well, as you enjoy your
trip to this beautiful city.
courts(should you fancy a little exercise).
On the outskirts of the south the Holiday Inn
Garden Court and the Sheraton beckon. If
looking for a view of the Arno, then the Park
Palace is for you.
© NileGuide
San Giovanni(Duomo)& San Marco
Tuscan cuisine, and Florentine food
in particular is essentially based on
simple, natural ingredients. It hails from
the traditions of peasant food and is
wholesome and tasty.
For comfort and elegance near San Marco,
try the Hotel Regency in Piazza Massimo
D'Azeglio, a pleasant, peaceful piazza.
Many fantastic four star hotels are also
scattered throughout the district, the
pick of the bunch are: the Grand Hotel
Baglioni, which is conveniently located
between the Piazza della Stazione and
the Duomo, this hotel has a stupendous
terrace view. Il Brunelleschi, housed in the
splendid, Byzantine Pagliazza tower, was
a female prison during the Middle Ages. Il
Calzaiuoli is also situated in a prime spot,
between Piazza del Duomo and Piazza
della Signoria. The Hotel Loggiato dei
Serviti and Le Due Fontane are to be found
in the setting of the Piazza Santissima
Annunziata.
Santo Spirito(Oltrarno)
Perhaps you would like a view of the Arno?
Lungarno has been recently renovated and
faces the river.
Campo di Marte& Fiesole
You can also find a wide choice of threestar establishments along the banks of the
Lungarni in this district, these are a little
further out of town, but you can easily reach
thecentro on foot within a matter of minutes:
such as the Hotel Columbus.
Novoli
If you are coming to Florence for business
rather than pleasure, you may find it easier
to stay near to the airport or the main
motorways. In the north of the city, you'll
find the Hotel Alexander and the Hotel
Fleming.
Gavinana& Galluzzo
If you want to lose yourself in the midst
of the city and be immersed in the green
of Viale dei Colli, then the Grand Hotel
Villa Cora is ideal, you can take a dip in
the pleasant pool, or you can try the four
star hotel, Relais Certosa in Certosa del
Galluzzo, with its own splendid tennis
Restaurants Insights
Extra-virgin olive oil is held in pride of
place in Florence, and it is never missing
from the Florentine table. Olive oil from
Tuscany is cold-pressed, green and
pungent orpizzichino(sometimes with a
slightly bitter after-taste) and is eaten within
a year and a half of harvesting the olives.
Olive oil is used as a dip for foods such
as celery, artichokes andpinzimonio(a
selection of fresh vegetables). It is also
used in cooking, and as a condiment for
salads and deliciousbruschette. Amongst
the bruschette there is one that is king, and
must be tasted to be believed! It is made
with red cabbage and beans and then
seasoned with ground pepper and Frantoio
oil.
If you want to indulge in Florentine bread
you should remember that in general,
bread in Tuscany does not use salt.
Tryschiacciata if you want a more flavorful
bread—this is a crusty focaccia salted and
drizzled with olive oil. A typical Florentine
antipasto dish is a recipe calledcrostini di
fegato, pieces of Florentine bread which
have been baked and dunked in soup,
and then garnished with chicken liver pâté,
capers and anchovies.
Another traditional Florentine specialty is
the famousbistecca alla fiorentina. The
steak comes from Chianina, a region near
Tuscany which produces the Chianina
breed, regarded as possibly the oldest
breed of cattle in the world. It is thick cut,
weighs not less than 800g, cooked on the
grill, served rare and, on occasion, with a
wedge of lemon on the side. AFiorentina
can satisfy two people, but there are those
brave enough who will attempt to eat one
all by themselves!
The soups andminestre are well worth
trying and they are derived from peasant
traditions. The most delicious, famous
31
Florentine soup isribollita, made with
a mixture of stale bread, beans,cavolo
nero(a black cabbage grown in Tuscany,
similar to kale or Swiss Chard) and other
typical Tuscan vegetables.Ribollita derives
its curious name from the fact that the
peasant women would usually cook the
soup in large quantities that would be
boiled repeatedly(ribollita), and then
eaten for several days. As with many
leftovers,ribollita always tastes better the
day after! Other delicious soups arepappa
con il pomodoro(a tomato-based soup
that's thickened with bread) andminestra
di farro(spelt or barley soup with beans,
tomatoes, celery and carrot). While
some of these soups might not sound
terribly appealing to your palate, they are
absolutely delicious, simple and hearty.
Do you have a sweet tooth?Schiacciata
alla Fiorentina is a special Florentine treat:
an orange-flavored sponge cake, covered
with confectioner's sugar(often with a
cocoagiglio, or lily- the symbol of Florence
—sprinkled onto the center) and filled
with pastry or whipped cream. Although
typically served around Carnevale, it can
be found at Florence's pastry shops year
round.Cantuccini di Prato are dry almond
biscuits that are dipped in Vin Santo, a
sweet, aromatic dessert wine.
Pizza Italy is famous for its pizza and
pizzerias can be found in almost every nook
and cranny of Florence, although getting
a typical Neapolitan-style pizza might be
a bit of a challenge: Florentine crusts tend
to be thin and crispy, cooked in a woodfueled oven. If you prefer the"traditional"
Neapolitan pizza, it is almost always
possible to ask for a pizza withdoppia
pasta(double crust), which means you'll get
a softer, thicker crust. Try Ciro& Sons for a
slice of Naples in Florence.
International Cuisine Recent years have
seen a big growth in the amount of ethnic
restaurants, ranging from the Chinese
restaurants to Mexican(Cafè Caracol),
from Indian(Ashoka or Ristorante India), to
Japanese(Momoyama) and there are also
many other restaurants in various areas of
the city.
Vegetarian Vegetarian cuisine has also
made an impression on Florence! Ruth's
is next to the Synagogue and sells Kosher,
vegetarian fare. Il Vegetariano serves
wonderful meat-free and organic dishes
and is a huge success in the city.
© NileGuide
Nightlife Insights
Tuscan Specialties These specialties
can be found in the majority of Florence's
restaurants. Some of the more famous,
traditional restaurants include: Il Latini,
Trattoria Mario, Coco Lezzone and La
Casalinga, there are also many others, so
don't feel dismayed if you don't get into the
places above.
Although Florence is quite a small city,
it is inundated with visitors, ex-pats and
students; this is great news if want to have
an evening of raucous fun, or if you prefer
to follow more cultural pursuits. Visitors
and Florentines alike are impressed by the
wealth of entertainment that they find on
offer here.
Haute Cuisine If you fancy something
more"refined", or if you want to celebrate
a really special occasion, then it is worth
spending that little bit extra and going
to Enoteca Pinchiorri, or Il Cibreo, you
could also try Cammillo, although you will
definitely need to book in advance.
Cinema
Wine Bars There are also manyenoteche
or wine bars in Florence: here you can
drop in, relax and have a glass or two of
good Chianti with a sandwich. In the most
elegant places e.g. Enoteca de' Giraldi
and Enoteca"La Sosta del Rossellino", you
can try delicious wines accompanied by
tasty bruschette and delicate appetizers. La
Barrique wine bar is also very popular and
has an extensive wine list.
Going to the cinema has become an
increasingly popular pastime since the
mid-1990s, and the number of cinemas
has increased to meet the needs of the
people in Florence; many of the city's
multiplexes have been renovated and
reopened. This change in the amount of
cinemas that exist has created a climate
of"non-stop cinematography" and fewer
cinemas close down during the summer
months. Florentine cinemas are very
varied; there are modern one-screen
halls, massive multiplexes and small
independent cinemas. The Cecchi Gori
Group owns the most cinemas in the city
and the majority show general releases
and(dubbed) American blockbusters,
although the Atelier group makes sure
that Art house theatre is kept alive. Atelier
have six cinemas that show good quality
independent films and directors and actors
will often attend previews and answer
audience questions. On Wednesdays,
prices are reduced and many Florentines
go to the movies. However, one of the best
times to go to the cinema is during the
summer; between the months of June and
September: you can watch a new release
or one of the previous winter's"smashes" in
the open air, as you sit beneath the stars.
Some of the"normal" cinemas will remain
open; many of these have air-conditioning,
which is a great way to avoid the humidity
of a Florentine summer, not to mention
all the mosquitoes! One cinema in the
historic center, the Odeon, caters to the
international community showing films
primarily in English, and sometimes the
occasional French or Spanish-language
cinematic phenomenon on Mondays,
Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Theatre
Although there are many more cinemas,
compared with the amount of theatres,
it is unfair to say that Florence favors
the"Big Screen" to the stage. The Florentine
theatrical tradition has always been
noteworthy, for example, the famous
Maggio Musicale Fiorentino attracts
many well-known people. The range of
productions is very varied too, there are
upbeat comedies by Neil Simon at Teatro
della Pergola, or more provocative, thought
provoking dramas such asA Streetcar
Named Desire at the Teatro Manzoni. If
Shakespeare is more your thing, then the
Metastasio Theatre will meet your highbrow
needs!
Cafés, Bars& Pubs
In Florence(and everywhere else) most
people want to go out and stay out until
late at the weekend; this city has a large
number of bars and discos, which people
can enjoy any day of the week. For a quiet
evening, drinking and chatting late into
the night, why not try Caffè Pitti in Piazza
Pitti, or Hemingway close to Santa Maria
del Carmine. At il Genius you can relax
with friends and play board/card games.
Zoe, Dolce Vita and Porfirio Rubirosa
are a little more crowded and lively, while
Cafè Caracol has a Latina vibe. If you are
more of a wine lover, then try Pitti Gola or
Cantina. Maybe you fancy a pint? Both
32
The William and Chequers are British in
style,(perhaps to meet the needs of the
many ex-pats who make their home here!)
They sell an infinite number of beers, and
snacks accompanied by good music and
are populated by Florentine beer lovers and
foreigners alike. Clubs
Lots of tourists like to check out the clubs
and discos when they are on holiday.
Florence offers a great variety of nightspots,
it is possible to choose from mainstream
discos such as Meccanò, where you might
meet a VIP or two), and the fabulously
cheesy Andromeda, or more specialist rock
bars such as Tenax(popular with many
young Italians) and the Auditorium Flog.
There are many nightclubs(especially
during the summer) with theme nights,
where people can dance, listen to music
and chat. These include Pongo, which is
close to Teatro Verdi and il Lidò on the
banks of the Arno, which attracts at least
half of the city.
As you can see, Florence has much to
attract the cultivated wine drinker, the
cinephile or the perpetual party boy/
girl.Divertitevi!
© NileGuide
Things to Do Insights
Piazza del Duomo is a great place to start
a tour that will uncover some of Florence's
historical beauty. Not only is the piazza rich
in history, but it's an architectural delight
too. One of the first sights you will see is
the Battistero di San Giovanni, dedicated
to St John the Baptist and one of the oldest
buildings in the city. It was constructed
in its current form in the 11th Century.
Besides the beautiful interior which is richly
decorated with mosaics, there are glorious
medieval and Renaissance bronze doors by
Andrea Pisano and Lorenzo Ghiberti. The
pair of doors designed by Ghiberti that the
public sees on the Baptistery are replicas
and the originals are located nearby at the
Museo dell'Opera del Duomo. The museum
is situated on the piazza, behind the apse
of the cathedral. Amongst other things, it
contains precious sculptures as well as
exhibits connected to the buildings that are
dotted around the piazza.
In front of the Baptistery is Santa Maria del
Fiore, which was built by Arnolfo di Cambio
in 1296 to replace the old Santa Reparata
cathedral. The archaeological remains of
this cathedral are in the basement of the
present church. Di Cambio's building was
only completed 150 years later with the
addition of the enormous cupola(dome) that
sits above the church's transept. Filippo
Brunelleschi, a truly gifted Renaissance
architect designed the dome. It is possible
to reach the top of the cupola(access is on
the right hand side of the church), which is
107m from ground level but there is no lift
so you will have to climb over 450 steps.
It is definitely worth climbing the steps, not
just for the beautiful view that awaits you at
the top, but also so that you can begin to
appreciate the mastery of Brunelleschi, as
the cupola is truly an extraordinary feat of
architecture.
The interior of the cathedral itself is also
well worth visiting, even though at times
there can be a queue. Amongst other
things, you will be able to see the frescoes
beneath the cupola, painted in the second
half of the sixteenth century by Vasari and
Zucchari. The frescoes cover an area of
around 3600m2 and represent theLast
Judgment. It is also worth taking a look
at the Sacristy where Lorenzo de'Medici
sought refuge during the Pazzi conspiracy
when his brother Giuliano was killed in the
cathedral in 1478. Here you will also see
the lined marquetries created by a group
of artists including Giuliano and Benedetto
da Maiano. There are two frescoes on the
right of the nave as you turn towards the
exit:Giovanni Acuto(Sir John Hawkwood) by
Paolo Uccello andNiccolò da Tolentino by
Andrea del Castagno.
As you leave the cathedral, you will see the
Campanile di Giotto. Giotto, the renowned
Medieval artist himself began work on
the tower prior to his death in the 14th
Century. In this case too, a climb to the
top is recommended—but take care if you
suffer from vertigo!
Walk down Via Calzaiuoli—along which
you will find hundreds of shops selling all
manner of goods—and in a few minutes,
you will reach the Piazza della Signoria,
the political center of Florence. The focal
point of the piazza is the imposing Palazzo
Vecchio(also known as the Palazzo della
Signoria). This palace once housed the
government of the city of Florence and
has been enlarged several times over the
centuries. Arnolfo di Cambio(the same
architect who designed the cathedral),
created the palazzo in 1294. The section
that is not dedicated to the museum retains
its function as the offices of the Town
Council. The second internal courtyard
houses the only public baths in the city
center.
On the Piazza della Signoria, you'll come
across the Loggia dei Lanzi, originally a
public meeting place which is now an openair museum where you can view several
sculptures by Giambologna(Rape of the
Sabines) and Baccio Bandinelli(Hercules
and Cacus). Besides this, there is also
the ManneristFountain of Neptune
by Bartolomeo Ammannati and the
equestrian monument toCosimo I, by
Giambologna. There is a 19th-century copy
of Michelangelo's magnificentDavid too,
which stands in front of the palace gates.
At this point you have a choice. You can
either visit the Galleria degli Uffizi(probably
one of the most important art collections
in the world), which is only a short walk
from the piazza, or, weather permitting,
relax at an open-air café, e.g. the Rivoire(a
popular choice), which is famous for its hot
chocolate with cream—absolute bliss!
Medici Residences You can begin your
visit with what was the residence of the
Medici family, from Cosimo il Vecchio until
the Grand Duke Cosimo I: Palazzo MediciRiccardi in Via Larga, now known as Via
Cavour. The palace was comissioned by
Cosimo il Vecchio, designed by famed
architect Michelozzo in 1444 and finally
enlarged by the Riccardi family when
they took over ownership of the palace.
Today it is seat of Florence's Prefettura and
official offices of the province of Florence.
From the interior courtyard, it is possible
to visit the Cappella dei Magi(Chapel of
the Magi), frescoed by Benozzo Gozzoli
and magnificently restored for the 1992
anniversary of the death of Lorenzo de'
Medici. Throughout the fresco there are
numerous portraits of major Florentine
figures of the time as well as members
of the Medici family. Some of the famous
faces include leaders of the Eastern
Orthodox church and John VII Palaiologos,
Byzantine Emperor, both figures present
in the city during the Council of 1439. In
the palace there is also the Biblioteca
Riccardiana, with an entrance on via
dei Ginori 10, which features one of the
greatest library collections in the city with
manuscripts purchased from Riccardo
Riccardi and it has been open to the public
since the early 18th Century. The library
33
is adorned with sculpted interiors of the
1700s.
Around the corner from the Palazzo Medici
is the Chiesa di San Lorenzo, one of
Florence's ancient churches, rebuilt in
the 1500s by Filippo Brunelleschi and his
architectural team. One of the true Medici
churches, it contains the tombs of many
of their famous family members, from
Giovanni di Averardo and his wife Piccarda
Bueri, in the Sagrestia Vecchia, to Cosimo
il Vecchio, whose tomb is found in the
crypt, directly beneath the church's high
altar. In the Sagrestia Nuova, a work of
Michelangel, we find on one side the tombs
of Lorenzo il Magnifico, and his younger
brother Giuliano who was murdered in
the Pazzi Conspiracy in 1478, and on the
other the tombs of Lorenzo, Duke of Urbino
and Giuliano, Duke of Nemours. In the
adjacent Cappella dei Principi(Chapel of the
Princes), an opulent 17th-century design,
we find several tombs of Medici Dukes and
their wives.
Next to the church are the numerous stands
of the San Lorenzo Market where you can
buy clothing(new and used), shoes and
other trinkets that are great gifts for friends
and family. If you're looking for local food
products, the nearby Mercato Centrale,
Florence's largest market, you can find
everything from fruit and vegetables to
meat and fish, at affordable prices. While
you're there, why not try a lampredotto
sandwich, a Florentine specialty that not all
foreigners are willing to taste.
Returning to the via Cavour and following it
upwards, you arrive at piazza San Marco,
where the Church of San Marco is found.
The historic monastery previously belonged
to the Sylvestrines and in 1418 was handed
over to the Dominicans. Thanks to the
financing of Cosimo il Vecchio, the church
and monastery were able to enlarge.
While at the church, you simply can't miss
the Museum of San Marco that includes
part o the Dominican monastery where Fra'
Giovanni da Fiesole(perhaps better known
as Fra' Angelico, Antonino Pierozzi(bishop
and Florentine saint), Girolamo Savonarola,
and in most recent times Giorgio La Pira,
the unforgettable mayor of Florence.
A suggested starting point on the tour
of the church museum if the Cloister of
Sant'Antonino, and then from the Sala
Capitolare where Fra' Angelico frescoed
one of his masterpieces, theCruxifiction. On
the first floor of the monastery, spread out
through three corridors that open onto the
monks' cells, all decorated with frescoes
with religious scenes entirely done by Fra'
Angelo and his workshop. This is, without
a doubt, one of the most interesting and
emotional parts of the complex.
Not fear from the piazza is the Accademia
di Belle Arti where the small off-shoot
building of the Galleria dell'Accademia, in
which, among the many works of art, is the
original copy of theDavid by Michelangelo
as well as other works by this well-known
Florentine artist, such as thePrisoners. This
museum contains four of the statues that
were originally designed for the final resting
place of Pope Julius II(a Medici); however,
it was never realized.
Given the pretense of several offices
of the university, particularly in via degli
Alfani, there are many bakeries, small
grocery stores and bars where you can
getschiacciatine(a foccaccia-like bread
with salt, olive oil and sometimes peppers,
olives and other savory treats on top,
sandwiches, or coldprimi at affordable
prices. This also means that you can find
sit-down places that don't overcharge if
you don't take your meal or coffee at the
bar. This zone is also characterized by
the presence of specialized libraries, copy
shops and printing offices.
From the piazza San Marco, you can easily
arrive in under a couple minutes to the
piazza della Santissima Annunziata, with
the Basilica Mariana della Santissima
Annunziata, and on the right side, the
colonade designed by Filippo Brunelleschi
for the Ospedale degli Innocenti, a true
masterpiece of Renaissance architecture.
At this point, you ought to be tired, and if
you decide to head down the via dei Servi,
towards the Duomo whose magnificent
cupola is visible from the middle of the
piazza, or turn down the via della Colonna
and arrive at the Archaeological Museum,
to appreciate and superb Etruscan and
Egyptian artifacts.
Oltrarno Towards the Ponte Vecchio,
characterized by the numerous jewelry
shops, which originally butcher and leather
makers that lined the river, and in crossing
this famous bridge you arrive in an area
known as the Oltrarno. The area is more
formally known as Santo Spirito and today
has unique artistic characteristics that
distinct it from other parts of the city. During
the summer, it is not difficult to find locals
sitting on chairs in front of their apartment
buildings, chatting and discussing the
day's events. This has always been an
area where many artists have lived and
worked, something that is still quite visible
today with the numerous restoration and art
studios that line the streets.
Shortly after crossing the bridge, on the
left there is the Chiesa di Santa Felicita,
Florence's oldest church, restored in the
18th Century. Up a bit further is the large
piazza on an incline which leads to the
entrance of the Palazzo Pitti, originally a
residence of the Pitti family who went broke
constructing and decorating it to outdo the
Medici...who eventually purchased it in
1565 to save Luca Pitti from impending
debt. Today the palazzo houses five
museums, but if you don't want to stay
cooped up indoors and the weather permits
it, it is strongly suggested that you visit the
Boboli Gardens, which is easily accessible
from the palace's courtyard. The extensive
gardens go from the hills to the Forte
Belvedere, a fortress of the city; however, if
you can't make it to the top, a walk amongst
the trees and sit on the benches to enjoy
the beauty of the gardens.
Following these suggestions, just
outside the piazza Pitti is the splendid
via Maggio(previously known as the via
Maggiore), lined with gorgeous 16thcentury palaces that belonged to Florence's
most noted families, not to mention all
the lovely antique shops that are on both
sides of the road. Shopping here is really
élite, reserved for those who can afford
to buy an expensive villa or an expensive
Renaissance-era piece of furniture. There
are also more affordable shops in the area
where you can find items to bring home as
souvenirs.
Walking down these narrow streets that
characterize this area you will inevitably
find yourself in front of the Chiesa di Santo
Spirito, Brunelleschi's last architectural
triumph. In front of the church, every
morning, there are different markets, and
once a month there is an antiques markettruly an event to not miss out on. There
are plenty of choices for dining in this area:
bakeries, grocery shops, but also small,
family-run trattorie with homemade meals
and outstanding menus at affordable prices.
By this point, if you aren't already
exhausted, you can take the main street
34
back towards the Chiesa di Santa Maria
del Carmine, even if it's just to see
the chapel of Felice Brancacci that he
commissioned from Masaccio in the 1420s.
The frescoes are truly a masterpiece of
Early Renaissance art, works not to miss.
The entrance to the chapel. The entrance
to the chapel is from the piazza, on the right
side of the church.
© NileGuide
Travel Tips
Getting There
By Air
Florence's Amerigo Vespucci
Airport(+39 055 373 3498/ http://
www.aeroporto.firenze.it/) is just six miles
northwest of downtown, but handles a
limited number of airlines. It has recently
been renovated to accommodate more
passengers and more airlines. They
include:
Air France( +1 800 871 1366/ http://
www.airfrance.com/) Alitalia( +1 800
223 5730/ http://www.alitalia.com/)
Austrian Airlines(+1 800 843 0002/
http://www.aua.com/) Belle Air( +355
42 40 194/ http://www.belleair.al/)
Brussels Airlines(+1 516 740 5200/ http://
www.brusselsairlines.com/) Carpatair(+44
208 602 7077/ http://www.carpatair.ro/)
Continental( +1 800 231 0856/ http://
www.continental.com/) Flybaboo( http://
www.flybaboo.com/) KLM( +1 800 374
7747/ http://www.klm.nl/) Lufthansa( +1
800 645 3880/ http://www.lufthansa.com/)
Meridiana(+39 0789 52682/ http://
www.meridiana.it/) Sterling Airlines( +44
0870 787 8038/ http://www.sterling.dk/)
Swiss Airways( +1 877 359 7947/ http://
www.swiss.com/)
From the Airport
Bus: ATAF(+39 055 56 501/ http://
www.ataf.net/) provides bus service every
30 minutes between 6a-11:30p. The
ride takes about 20 minutes, depositing
passengers at the Santa Maria Novella Rail
Station. Cost: EUR4.50.
downtown area near Santa Maria Novella
train station.
Avis(+1 800 831 2847/ http://
www.avis.com/) Hertz(+1 800 654 3131/
http://www.hertz.com/) Europcar(+39 041
541 5654/ http://www.europcar.com/)
National(+1 800 227 7368/ http://
www.nationalcar.com/)
By Train
Ferrovie Dello Stato, or FS(http://
www.trenitalia.it/), the Italian state railway,
enjoys a sound reputation for efficiency.
Since Florence is on the main Rome-Milan
Line, riders are offered a variety of daily
options, including Intercity trains(IC), known
for their express service. Santa Maria
Novella, the city's main train station located
in the north end of Florence, handles most
of the rail traffic. Rifredi, a much smaller
station, offers a limited number of rail
choices.
By Bus
Lazzi Eurolines(+39 055 363 041) handles
international travel connecting Florence
with major European cities such as
Brussels, Barcelona, Paris and Prague.
Its station is located adjacent to the Santa
Maria Novella train station. Domestic travel
is provided by SITA(+39 055 294 9555/
http://www.sita-on-line.it/) to locations such
as Lucca, Volterra, Pisa, Siena, Empoli and
more.
By Car
Autostrada 1(A1), Italy's major highway,
juts into Florence from Bologna from the
north, and continues south to Rome.
E76 connects Florence with Pisa and the
Ligurian Sea to the west.
Getting Around
The Azienda Transporti Area Florentina, or
ATAF(+39 055 56501/ http://www.ataf.net/),
manages Florence's bus transportation. It
services all the major tourist attractions,
operating between 5a-1:30a. Fares: 70minute ticket EUR 1.20; one-day ticket
EUR 5; three-day ticket EUR 12; seven-day
ticket EUR 22.
Taxis: Taxis can be found just outside the
arrival terminal. Rides to downtown last
15-20 minutes and cost approximately EUR
20-30.
Taxi
Rental Cars: There are several rental
dealers at the airport with offices in the
Cars
Taxis can easily be hailed at stands found
at hotels and major squares throughout the
city. A minimum fare starts at EUR 4.
Cars are not recommended. Most of
Florence's narrow streets are limited
to locals with properly marked vehicles
and filled with locals zooming around on
scooters. And if you dare to drive you will
quickly learn that the Renaissance never
gave thought to parking.
Walking
Walking rates as the best means for
negotiating Florence's narrow maze of
cobblestone alleys and streets. Downtown
is very compact with most of the major
tourist attractions located within several
blocks of each other. Be sure, however, to
carry a map.
Motorini
Mopeds, if anything, will make you look
like a local. Riders must be 18 and helmets
are mandatory. Alinari(+39 055 280
500), Maxirent(+39 055 265 420), and
Massimo(+39 055 573 689) are good rental
sources. Expect to pay around EUR 30 per
day.
Flying Into Pisa(PSA)
Pisa's Galileo Galilei(+39 050 849 300/
http://www.pisa-airport.com/)(PSA) is
the larger of the two airports that service
Tuscany, but is situated 58 miles west of
Florence. Major airlines include:
Air France( +1 800 871 1366/ http://
www.airfrance.com/) Alitalia( +1 800
223 5730/ http://www.alitalia.com/)
British Airways( +1 800 247 9297/ http://
www.ba.com/) Continental(+1 800 525
0280/ http://www.continental.com/)
Delta( +1 800 221 1212/ http://
www.delta.com/) easyJet( +44 870
600 0000/ http://www.easyjet.com/)
Lufthansa( +1 800 645 3880/ http://
www.lufthansa.com/) RyanAir( http://
www.ryanair.com/) Sky Europe(+421 2
4850 4850/ http://www2.skyeurope.com/)
TUI(+49 511 2200 4713/ http://
www.tuifly.com/) United( +1 800 538 2929/
http://www.united.com/) US Airways( +1
800 622 1015/ http://www.usairways.com/)
Trains& Coaches from Pisa to Florence
Riding the train is a good travel option
to Florence. The Pisa Aeroporto station
provides a train about one every hour
between 6:30a-10:30p. Rides last an hour
and a half. One-way fare: EUR 5.40.
A new coach service from Pisa to
Florence is offered by Terravision(http://
35
www.terravision.eu/florence_pisa.html/),
with trips taking just 70-80 minutes and
costs EUR 8 one-way.
Rental Cars: Avis(+1 800 831 2847/
http://www.avis.com/) Hertz(+1 800
654 3131/ http://www.hertz.com/)
Europcar(+39 041 541 5654/ http://
www.europcar.com/) Thrifty(+1 800 367
2277/ http://www.thrifty.com/)
The drive to Florence on the E76 takes
about 45 minutes.
© NileGuide
Fun Facts
Top 12 Florence Facts
1.Weird Fact: Florence streets can be one
name at one end of the street and another
name at the other end. For example,
Via Martelli is the street leading away
from Piazza del Duomo then at the first
intersection it turns into Via Cavour.
2.Fun Fact: Florence is the capital city of
the province of Florence and the Italian
region of Tuscany.
3.Interesting Fact:Via Chiantigianais the
most beautiful road in all of Italy. Winding
through the vineyards and woodlands
surrounding Florence connecting to Siena.
4.Weird Fact: Fiascois an Italian word
referring to a glass bottle or flask with
a long neck. According to the Oxford
English dictionaryfiasco--meaning a
failure or complete breakdown--comes
from the Italian expressionfare fiasco,
to make a bottle. Nobody knows how
this Italian expression came to be in the
English language. Today, old trattorie are
still calledfiaschetteria--working men's
taverns. Back in the day was known
as taverns with hearty, cheap Tuscan
wines and later for a more homey Tuscan
specialities that paired with the wines.
5.Fun Fact: How do the Italiansreallyeat
pasta? The correct technique involves
piercing some pasta near the edge of the
bowl, not in the center but at the twelve
o'clock position, then twirling the pasta
around the fork against the rim of the bowl.
6.Historical Fact:In 1339, Florence became
the first city in Europe with paved streets.
7.Random Fact:Florence was home to
the infamousMedicifamily from the 14th
century to the 18th century.Leonardo da
Vinci,Niccolo Machievelli,Galileo Galilei,
Amerigo Vespucci, Donatello, Raffaele,
Roberto Cavalli, and Guccio Gucci,fashion
designer andGuccifashion was founded in
Florence 1921.
8.Historical Fact:The Grand Duchy of
Tuscany was the first state to abolish
capital punishment in November 1786.
9.Interesting Fact:Florence has had two
floods; one on November 4, 1333 and
November 4, 1966.
10.Fun Fact:What would come to be
thought of as Italian was first formalized in
the first years of the 14th century through
the works of Dante Alighieri, who mixed
southern Italian languages, especially
Sicilian, with his native Florentine in his
epic poems known collectively as theDivine
Comedy. Dante's much-loved works were
read throughout Italy and his written dialect
became the standard that all educated
Italians could understand. Dante is still
credited with standardizing the Italian
language and, thus, the dialect of Florence
became the basis for what would become
the official language of Italy.
11.Historical Fact:Florence Nightingale,
famous for revolutionizing the field of
nursing, was named for the city of her birth.
12.Fun Fact:Florence is best known for
leather and gold
© NileGuide
36
Weather
Statistics
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Average High
11
12
16
19
24
28
32
32
27
21
15
11
Average Mean
6
7
11
13
18
22
25
25
21
16
11
7
Average Low
2
3
6
8
12
16
18
19
15
12
7
4
Average High
51
54
61
66
75
83
89
89
80
70
59
52
Average Mean
43
45
51
56
64
72
77
77
69
61
51
45
Average Low
36
37
42
47
54
61
65
66
59
53
44
38
Rainy Days
6
6
6
7
7
6
4
5
7
8
8
8
Rain Fall (cm)
3.4
3.7
3.2
6.0
4.5
3.8
2.3
2.8
5.5
8.6
8.9
5.2
Rain Fall (in)
1.4
1.5
1.2
2.4
1.8
1.5
0.9
1.1
2.2
3.4
3.5
2.0
Temperature C
Temperature F
© NileGuide
37
Rome Snapshot
Local Info
Rome is a city that cannot be described
in few words. With over 2500 years of
history, hundreds of thousands of art works,
monuments, and beautiful views, the aptly
named Eternal City is interwoven with
unparalleled history, beauty and drama.
Every monument, palazzo, park and piazza
are testament to the many rises and falls
of Rome, from its early Repubblican birth
and Imperial age through to its 21st century
incarnation. Likened to a gigantic open-air
museum, Rome is living history and every
year, the city hosts millions of visitors-tourists, scholars and pilgrims-- from
all over the world. It is chaotic, friendly,
aggressive, and relaxed. In essence, a
charming contradiction that wins the hearts
of its visitors, who always return.
Rome is famously noted as being built
on seven hills-- the Quirinale, Viminale,
Esquilino, Celio, Aventine, Capitoline,
and Palatine. The birth of Rome starts on
thePalatine, a small shepherding settlement
where, as tradition says, Romulus lived
when he founded the city. Historically,
the Palatine was the"it" hill where Rome's
celebrated leaders lived from the Kings of
7th to 5th centuries, to the Repubblican
senators and patricians and the Imperial
Age's emperors. TheCapitoline hill
represents Rome itself- it was the center
of the Empire, home to the most important
temples(which served for religious as
well as political significance) from the 7th
century BC through Rome's changing
times. Today, the Capitoline hill is centered
by the Michelangelo-designed Piazza
del Campidoglio, with statue of Emperor
Marcus Aurelius on horseback at the very
center. Perimetering the piazza are the
Capitoline Museums, Italy's most precious
sculpture collection, and Rome's city hall.
The highest of Rome's seven hills,
theQuirinale is home to Palazzo del
Quirinale, a former papal and monarchy
residence and now palace to Italy's
reigning president. Noteworthy is the
open piazza, with its looming obelisk and
equestrian statues. Opposite the Palazzo
is theScuderie, formerly stables and now
a gorgeous temporary exposition space
for international exhibition. The base of
the Quirinale was partially dismantled by
Emperor Trajan at the beginning of the 2nd
century. What remains are the markets
of Trajan and Trajan's column, marking
the height of the hill. TheViminale stands
next to Quirinale and is smaller in size.
The hill is bisected by Via Nazionale,
a shopping street where the early 20th
century Palazzo delle Esposizioni building
resides, and leads upward to the majestic
Piazza della Repubblica, a favorite piazza
for its double-sided arcade of columns and
playful Naiad fountain. Just behind the
piazza is Rome's principal railway station,
Stazione Termini. Roman poets Virgil
and Horace lived on theEsquiline hill, now
a very busy neighborhood with Rome's
recently favorite Monti neighborhood. The
Esquiline's terrain includes three peaks,
one of which is Monte Oppio, where Nero
built his infamous Domus Aurea. Below
the Esquiline and behind the Colosseum
is theCelio, Rome's greenest and most
charming of hill where the lovely Villa
Celimontana park is located. TheAventine,
seen from the peak of the Palatine, past
the Circus Maximus, is a quiet, residential
neighborhood, with remains of Rome's
original 3rd century BC Several wall.
Rome has expanded these seven hills,
and in a city of hundreds of rooftops and
domes like San Pietro(St. Peter's Basilica),
some of the most beautiful panoramas can
be seen from the hills of Montemario, the
Pincio, and the Janiculum.
© NileGuide
History
The history of Rome is based on myth,
which Romans proudly celebrate every 21st
of April. Rome's beginnings start with the
fall of Troy, and Aeneas's escape from the
burning city. Fleeing by ship with his father
Anchises and son Ascanio, he landed on
the Italian peninsula. Ascanio eventually
founds Albalunga, a community in Lazio.
As myth recounts, Ascanio's descendant
Rhea Silvia, perhaps predicted to mother
a nation, was forced to become a Vestal
Virgin so as not to bear children. However,
Rhea Silvia was loved by the god Mars and
bore him twin sons, Romulus and Remus,
who she placed in a basket in the Tiber
so they would be killed. The twins were
washed up on the Tiber banks, close to
the Palatine hill and were nutured by a
she-wolf. Eventually, a shepherd raises
the brothers. Romulus and Remus grow
up and take residence on the Palatine
and Aventinte hills, respectively. And as
the myth progresses, the brothers argue
over who will be the foretold founder of an
empire so Romulus kills Remus and founds
the city Rome on April 21s, 753 BC.
Rome's ancient history covers three
distinct periods—the Age of the Kings,
the Republican Age and the Imperial
Age. From Romulus, the small hillside
community was ruled by the"king of
the hill" until 510 BC. Seven historic
kings who change Rome from a small
shepherding town into a cosmopolitan
city with complex governing and trading
programs and an impressive drainage
system. With its constant exposure to far
more democratic states, especially Greece,
Rome's kings were ousted and in its place
was an advanced republic, which is the
blueprint for all future democracies. The
republic was also characterized by internal
struggles that eventually due to the rise
of the plebeians(lower class Romans).
The Republic was not just city, but a
concept that expanded through Lazio,
the Italic peninsula and eventually the
Mediterranean. For almost four centuries,
Rome built unparalleled and nearly infallible
republic, accomplishing what Greece,
Persia and Egypt could not-- the unification
of the East and West.
Corruption was rampant, likewise egos
and the Republic was shattered with the
death of Julius Caesar on March 15, 44
BC. Chaos reigned but 31 BC marks the
beginning of the Empire, under Augustus
Caesar. The imperial age opened with
a long period of peace, Pax Romanus,
under the iron grip of Augustus. And by
the beginning of the 2nd century under
Trajan, the empire's expanse was in its full
glory. However, instability and corruption
were popular within the empire and
likewise within the psyche of the Emperors.
Centuries forward brought dilution of
the boundaries and of the emperors.
Christianity, legalized under Constantine
in 312 AD, began to spread and create a
strong presence that challenged imperial
regime.
38
Rome Snapshot continued
Hotel Insights
The official fall of Rome is marked at 476
AD, but its decline was seen much earlier.
The causes are many: constant relocation
of the capital, uncontrollable subjects,
quixotic social and economic changes,
and finally the arrival and strength of the
barbarian tribes. Rome was left as a bandit
town, a gangland and an abyss through
the Middle Ages. The only ruling party was
papal, but again, the city was anarchy.
However, the Pope's power evolved from
religious to military, and through out the
centuries grew exponentially. In 1377,
Rome was established as official papal
headquarters and by the end of the 15th
century, its cultural impact on the city was
seen in the papal beautification programs
—essentially urban planning. The face of
the city changed, as palaces, villas, piazzas
and churches were built. New streets were
created and the basilica of Saint Peter was
leveled and rebuilt, followed by two more
centuries of expansion and beautification.
Clashes continued between the papacy and
Rome's people, and in the beginning of the
1800s, Napoleon changed the landscape
as church's estates were confiscated
and divided amongst French officials and
Italian laymen. The 1800s were an era of
unrest through out the Peninsula, with the
rising campaign to overthrow the pope and
install a monarchy. In 1870, the campaign
succeeded and Italy was established as a
country free of papal rule, led by both a king
and parliament with Rome as its capital. In
1923, Mussolini was elected to Parliament
and eventually becomes 20th century tyrant
heralding Fascism. World War II caused
tantamount strife in Italy as Italy was first
part of the axis and then surrendered to the
Allied forces in 1943, leading Germany to
occupy Rome for over 9 months as the King
fled. The city was bombed by the Allies
and in April 1944 it was liberated. In 1946,
Italy became once again a republic, exiling
its monarchy, and ever since, Rome has
been the hotbed of Italy's whimsical politics.
© NileGuide
The"Eternal City" holds a fascination for
anyone in search of history or just plain
beauty. Students, tourists, businessmen
and pilgrims visit Rome at any time of the
year, maintaining an uninterrupted flow of
tourism that redefines the Eternal moniker.
Despite Rome's abundance of hotels, it is
not always easy to find a last-minute room,
so make sure to research and reserve in
advance.
Centro Storico(Historic Center)
The majority of hotels, both luxury and
lax, are found Rome's historic center.
Traditionally,Via Veneto is home to Rome's
most expensive and luxurious including
theAmbasciatori Palace, theHotelMajestic,
theWestin Excelsior and theEden—
all making deserved appearance in
Federico Fellini's filmLa Dolce Vita.
Heading down the hill, Rome's other
exclusive addresses are the Bernini Bristol
overlooking theFountain of Triton, and the
omnipotentHassler Villa Medici, at the top
of the Trinità dei Monti steps. Now luxury
can be found all over the city, from the
majesticExedra at Piazza della Repubblica
to the celebrity favoriteDe Russie at
Piazza del Popolo. For those wanting
a little Grand Tour charm, theValadier
inPiazza del Popolo, theD'Inghilterra and
theDei Borgognoni near the lively Piazza
di Spagna, all provide a room with a very
beautiful view.
Affordable accommodations pepper the city,
and some popular pads are found in and
around the nooks of Campo dei Fiori, the
Pantheon and Piazza Navona, likeHotel
Teatro di Pompeo, Albergo del Sole and
Relais Palazzo Taverna. If antiquity is of
most importance, theForty-Seven,Inn at the
Forum and Hotel Gladiatori, with amazing
forum and colosseum views, may just fit
your needs.
Termini
Manypensioni and bed& breakfasts are
found around Termini station. They are
almost always privately run, simply and
cheap, making them an ideal choice for
budget traveling. The Bee Hive is Rome's
favorite for atmosphere and affordability.
Trastevere
The Trastevere neighborhood has a
broad range of hotels, from the luxurious
Hotel Donna Camilla Savelli to the more
outrageous Goodnight Garibaldi.
Parioli/Flaminio
For less chaos and green, the upperclass
and very residential Parioli neighborhood
has the swankyLord Byron hotel, a favorite
among business travelers and trystseekers.
© NileGuide
There is a wide, varied selection as far
as gastronomy is concerned in Rome;
choices range from exclusive high-level
cuisine, developed by some of the most
famous chefs on the international scene
to traditional, heartyRomanesca fare in all
its manifold variations; from Jewish cuisine
andtestaccina recipes to the specialties
of Lazio and ethnic dishes, which can be
sampled in the plethora of restaurants that
offer delights from all over the world.
The only way to really understand the
heart and soul of Rome is by tasting its
culinary splendors in a popular restaurant,
this allows you to steep yourself in Roman
culture while you discover the tastes and
flavors of traditional cooking through the
ages.
Delicious Roman cuisine stems from a time
when people were unable to afford a meal
made with meat, and therefore had to use
offal, which at that time was considered
less"prestigious" but definitely more
affordable. Over the centuries, traditional
dishes likecoda alla vaccinara(oxtail cooked
with wine, tomatoes and peppers),la
pajata,(veal's offal cooked in a tomato
sauce),l'abbacchio alla scottadito andla
trippa alla romana(tripe), have come to be
considered as delicacies and are eaten by
even the most refined palates.
Centro Storico(Historic Center)
If in search of high-class food, Rome offers
a great choice of quality restaurants. There
are elegant places in the more exclusive
hotels, such as La Pergola dell'Hotel
Hilton, the Terrazza dell'Hotel Eden or La
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Veranda dell'Hotel Majestic. You can also
try the delights of creative haute cuisine
at restaurants such as Quinzi& Gabrieli,
Alberto Ciarla, and Le Sans Souci. Tucked
away down a small alley, the exclusive Il
Convivio Troiani can be hard to fine, but if
you are looking for Italianalta cucina this is
your place. Agata e Romeo have offered
family run fine dining for three generations.
Romeo is an expert sommelier and the
restaurant has over 1500 labels in its
cellar. Romolo nel Giardino della Fornarina
in Trastevere is the perfect setting for a
romantic evening; dine outside in the lowlit courtyard where Raphael is said to have
courted his lady La Fornarina. Nino is a
cozy option, offering classic Roman and
Tuscan cuisine in a warm environment. Or,
if you are looking for pizza in the center,
try Da Baffetto, which has been serving up
some of best around since the 1960s.
Inspired by the popular filmBabette's Feast,
Ristorante Babette has the feel of a 1920s
French bistro. Gusto 28 also has a chic
early 20th-century feel, and is especially
known for its seafood dishes and variety of
vegetarian plates. Ancient meets modern
at L'Acino Brillo, where creative cuisine and
contemporary decor blend delightfully in
this hip restaurant and wine bar.
the Neapolitan pizza; however, if you are
craving a taste of bella Napoli, you can't
do any better than Da Vittorio. You will
find pizzerias in every corner of the city,
but Trastevere offers an especially wide
choice of pizza restaurants with wood
fueled ovens(these give the pizza a more
intense flavor). Panattoni, Ivo, Dar Poeta,
Roma Sparita, Arco di San Calisto, are just
some of the places from a wide selection
of high quality pizza parlors. Remo, in the
heart of Testaccio, offers outdoor seating
and hip younger crowd. In addition to
pizza, don't miss other delicious Roman
offerings found at pizzerie and trattorie,
such asSupplì al telefono, fried rice balls
filled with mozzarella, potato croquettes,
fried cod fillets, fried pumpkin flowers,
andbruschette,(slices of toasted bread with
tomato or oil and garlic).
Termini
Est! Est!! Est!!! has been around since the
early 1900s, and serves thick-crusted pan
pizzas as opposed to traditional Roman thin
crusted pies. This is a great option if you
are in the center of the city and don't feel
like heading over to the many pizzerie over
in the Trastevere.
Vaticano
Rosati is also in the center and offers great
views with their coffee. A celebrity hot spot
during the 1960s and 1970s, they also have
a dining room if your espresso leaves you
wanting more. Obika off Piazza Navona
offers something unique yet stillveramente
italiano- a fresh mozzarella bar. A number
of varieties of one of Italy's most famous
cheeses are served here, accompanied by
a nice selection of meats, vegetables and
sauces.
For gelato, Gelateria Pellacchia in the
historical center offers some of Rome's
best, as well as coffees and panini.
©
A relaxing way to enjoy a snack or evening
coffee is at one of Rome's many cafés,
usually serving coffee, gelato, panini and
snacks. The elegant Ciampini is located
atop the Spanish Steps, and offers amazing
views of the city. The famed Antico Caffè
Greco is one of Rome's oldest(open since
the 1760), and is definitely one of its most
exclusive.
Theater
Trastevere
Pizzerias and trattorie are definitely the
most popular places to dine in Rome:
informal, economical and with speedy
service, they are home topizza alla romana,
pizzas with a thin crust and a crispy edge,
as opposed to the soft raised crusts of
Nightlife Insights
Rome's beauty is accessible both day and
night and the same is to be said for its vast
range of entertainment—theater, cinema,
opera, discos; the list is(almost) endless.
The theatrical season lasts from October
to May and it can often continue through
the summer months. Most theatres offer a
range of plays and productions, but there
is one very special exception: The Sistina
is the undisputed home of musicals. There
are numerous private, experimental and
avant-garde theatres often hosting young
artists and offering stimulating, thoughtprovoking works. The Abraxa Teatro, is
home to an innovative company, who seek
to express themselves and their ideas by
using their bodies rather than speech. If
your tastes are a little more traditional,
historic theatres such as Teatro Argentina,
Valle and the Nazionale offer high quality
performances by famous actors and theatre
companies. The Teatro della Cometa and
the Teatro Flaiano offer light comedies.
Cinema
The cinemas in Rome have greatly
improved over the past few years. Many
new multiplexes have been built and
other cinemas have been completely
restored. The cinema scene in Rome
today is characterized by a fair amount
of small, independent cinemas and many
large, modern multiscreen cinemas;
these cinemas almost exclusively show
commercial films. Some of the better
known independent cinemas such as
the Greenwich, the Intrastevere, and
the Labirinto have united to formCircuito
Cinema, a society interested in promoting
innovative films, created in an attempt
to confront the supremacy of the large
distribution companies. Warner Moderno,
Metropolitan, Nuovo Sacher and Alcatraz
often show English-language films.
Summer is definitely the most romantic time
to enjoy a film at the outdoor cinema on
Isola Tiberina.
Live Music
Live music is popular in Rome. There are
an increasing number of places offering live
music from Italy, America, England, Africa
and South America. The most successful
venues are concentrated in certain areas
such as the Testaccio quarter, including
places like Akab and Radio Londra. The
Trastevere quarter is the home of the
historic Big Mama. The Alexanderplatz in
Trionfale is also recommended.
Classical Music
Classical music lovers are also catered
for, the city has a varied concert season;
there is chamber music at the Accademia
di Santa Cecilia and the Gonfalone
organizes delightful baroque music
concerts. The"symphony season" at
the Teatro dell'Opera takes place in
Terme di Caracalla during the summer,
but the Associazione Il Tempietto offers
concerts throughout the year. The elegantly
furnished and imposing Teatro dell'Opera
is the only theatre in Rome, which offers
an operatic season of any importance and
in summer, opera is performed outdoors in
the enchanting Terme di Caracalla or the
Piazza di Siena.
Discotheques
40
Discos are very popular amongst the
glamorous Romans; the elegant, formal
crowd(politicians, actors and VIPs)
often like to go to 1980s style clubs. The
more"serious" clubbers frequent Via
Galvani in Testaccio, the heart of Rome's
night life. During the summer months,
many discos relocate to the beaches of
Fregene and Ostia, and some even to the
Tiber banks for RomaEstate.
Pubs& Bars
Discos aren't the only places that are
popular on the weekend; pubs, beer
gardens, restaurants and bars all teem with
life. Many of theselocali perform more than
one function. For example, a cocktail bar
will sell beer or allow you to surf the Internet
before you hit the dance floor. Many cafés
stay open late. The most popular and lively
cafés are in the splendid Trastevere district
in Via Veneto and Piazza Navona like the
classic Caffe della Pace. Wine bars tend
to be laid-back, informal and welcoming.
These are great places to have a snack
while sipping some excellent wine. Try the
Trimani Il Wine Bar and the Cul de Sac in
Piazza Navona. Pubs and beer gardens in
Rome tend to have a British theme, they
serve many different beers, and true to the
good old'Brit' style, you can enjoy a game
of darts with your pint! Places to be"seen" in
include the Fiddler's Elbow and the Victoria
House.
© NileGuide
Trevi Fountain, immortalized in Fellini's
filmLa Dolce Vita. Although you are not
allowed to wade through the fountain as
Anita Ekberg famously did, legend has it
that throwing a coin in ensures a return trip
to Rome. On the other side of the Pantheon
is the oval0shaped Piazza Navona which
was once a Roman circus(hence its shape)
but designated as a square in the 15th
Century. Bernini's famous Fontana dei
Quattro Fiumi is located here, along with
Fontana del Nettuno. Piazza Campo de'
Fiori is also close by. By day the square
hosts one of the most famous street
markets in Italy, and is a popular meeting
place for tourists as well as local youth
during evening hours. The Spanish Steps
or Scalinata Trinità dei Monti, at Piazza di
Spagna, are another of Italy's most famous
meeting places.
Vatican
Heading the list of Rome's ancient
monuments is of course the Colosseum.
Inaugurated in 80 AD, it is the symbol of the
Imperial Capitol and draws visitors from all
over the world. Even if the lines are long, a
tour of this ancient arena is well worth it.
Many of the works that were uncovered
during the original excavation can now be
seen in the Vatican Museums. St. Peter's
Square is one of the most visited places on
Earth. People come from all over the world
to see Saint Peter's Basilica and receive
the Pope's blessing, traditionally given
Sundays at noon. Leave plenty of time to
tour the Musei Vaticani(Vatican Museums),
which house numerous masterpieces,
including Michaelangelo's Sistine Chapel
and Rapahel's School of Athens. Just
east of the Vatican on the Tiber is Castel
Sant'Angelo. Originally constructed as a
mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian in 139
CE, the fortress was used as a castle
during the 10th Century and eventually as
a papal residence. The last act of Puccini's
masterworkTosca took place here, and
today the building has been turned into a
museum. The Ponte Sant'Angelo stretches
over the Tiber and was also constructed by
Hadrian, intended to link the tomb with the
center of Rome.
The Forum
©
Colosseum
The Palatine is the oldest part of the city
and home to the many of the ancient sites.
To the North of the Palatine hill are the vast
remains of the Roman Forum, once the
social, political, and economic center of the
city.
Pantheon, Trevi& Navona
The Pantheon, with its rotund interior and
open ceiling, was constructed circa 125
BC and is now used as a Christian Church.
One of Rome's famous landmarks is the
Travel Tips
Airports
Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci(FCO)
International airport and Ciampino(CIA)
airport(www.adr.it) are Rome's two hubs
for air travel. Fiumicino is the transatlantic
traveler's delight with its numerous shops
and restaurants. Fiumicino has long and
short term parking, and easily connected to
Rome by a thirty minute train ride, bus or
taxi. Ciampino is hub for European travel,
especially for budget airlines like Ryan Air
and Easy Jet. Ciampino is connected to
Rome by bus, shuttle and taxi.
From the Airport
Fiumicino-Leonardo Da Vinci International
Airport (FCO)
Train: The Leonardo Express runs
directly from the airport to the main rail
terminal,Termini, as well as Tiburtina and
Trastevere stations, with trains every 30
minutes from 6:35a-11:35p. Tickets are
purchased either from teller or automated
machines, and must be validated prior to
boarding. Children under 12 accompanied
by an adult ride free. Follow signs
for"Stazione FS/Railway Station," located
on the second floor.
Bus:"Sit Bus Shuttle" to and from airport
to city center(Piazza Cavour e Stazione
Termini, in Via Marsala). Bus stop is found
in front of Arrivals at Terminal 3. Tickets
are purchased on bus.http://sitbusshuttle.it
Taxi: Rome's official taxis are white with
black identity codes on the door. A ride from
the airport the city center is EUR40, with
supplemental baggage fees. Wait in the
official-regulated taxi lines rather than falling
prey to non-licensed drivers.
Ciampino Airport(CIA)
Bus: to and from Ciampino to Termini
Station by busesATRAL, COTRAL, SIT and
TERRAVISION. The buses are parked in
dedicated bus bays opposite International
Departures.
Train
Rome is a major hub for Italian rail,
at Termini Station. It is managed
and maintained by the Italian State
Railway(http://www.trenitalia.com/) and
offers a variety of options for continental
as well as local travel. The EuroStar and
Freccia Rossa are the high speed lines
traveling up and down the peninsula. Most
of the trains arrive and depart at Rome's
Termini station, including all InterCity,
regional and national trains, with a few
international trains stopping at Ostiense
and Tiburtina stations.
Bus
Tiburtina Station(http://
www.romatiburtina.it/), north eastern part of
Rome, is the base for most intercity buses.
The bus terminal is located adjacent to the
rail station. Euroline(http://www.eurolines.it/)
41
and Cotral services bus lines that run
internationally.
Car
All roads lead to Rome. The A1, Italy's
famed superhighway running from Milan to
Naples, makes sure to pass through Rome.
The A24 spans east and the SS1 Aurelia
coastal route splits the A12/E80 between
Genoa and Rome. All converge with
Rome's ring road, the Grande Raccordo
Anulare(GRA). With gas prices paid
by the liter and toll roads littering the
motorways, driving can be quite expensive.
Check out the Autostrada website(http://
www.autostrade.it/) for toll info throughout
the country.
Driving in Rome can be a harrowing
experience. The historical center is
a restricted driving zone(Zona Trafica
Limitata- abbreviated ZTL), and nonresident vehicles are prohibited M-F 8a-6p
and Sa 8a-1p, enforced by major fines.
Paid parking spaces are marked by blue
lines and are all over the city. Parking
Termini is located in front of the main train
station and is open from 6a-1a. ParkSi
and Parking Ludovisi are located near
the Villa Borghese. Another option are
theparcheggi di scampio lots, located
farther outside the city center usually near
metro stops. Around EUR2 a day, this is a
very economical but riskier option as lots
are unattended.
Public Transport
ATAC is Rome's public transportation
provider for buses, trams and metro line.
Tickets are 1 euro, and require validation
before travel. Duration is 75 minutes.
Buses run 24 hours a day throughout the
entire city. TheMetropolitana or metro
has two lines(A and B) recognizable by
large red signs marked"M". The lines crisscross through the city, intersecting only at
Stazione Termini and run from 5:30a-11:30
everyday, and until 12:30a on Saturdays.
Children under ten years ride free. For
information about special tickets like the allday pass and to plan your route, visithttp://
www.atac.roma.it/(Italian only site).
Taxi
Rome's official taxis are white and have
a black identification number on the door
reading Comune di Roma. Use only these
authorized taxis, as they are metered
and regulated-- and make sure to keep a
close eye on the meter. Normal starting
fare(between 7a-10p) is EUR2.80; night
fares are higher(10p-7a) EUR5. Remember
that Sunday and holiday fares also apply
between 7a-10p, and rate per mile
increases if you travel outside the city limits.
Bring plenty of small bills as Roman taxi
drivers are notorious for not having change!
Taxi Companies include:
Cooperativa Radiotaxi Samarcanda
Radiotaxi 3570
© NileGuide
Fun Facts
Interesting Fact: SPQR, Rome's nearly
2500 year-old mottoSenatus Populus
Romanus(aka the Senate and the People
of Rome) is also the motto of Rome's waste
removal organization.Fun Fact: Rome is
a capital city which contains the world's
smallest country, Vatican City, of 108 acres,
within the boundaries of the Eternal City's
original urban sprawl.Weird Fact: Visitors
have the opportunity for a sneak peak at
purgatory. The Museum of the Souls in
Purgatory sits in side room of the Church of
Sacred Heart of Suffering, just across the
river from Piazza Navona. The museum
showcases artefacts that have traces from
souls suffering in purgatory. Not limbo,
but purgatory, the 8000 year waiting room
between heaven and hell.
Massimo/Massimiliano.University Fact:
Rome's first university, La Sapienza(est.
A.D. 1303), is the largest in Europe with
over 100,000 enrolled students and
the second largest in the world.Soccer
Fact: Most Romans lovecalcio(soccer),
and Rome sports two teams: Roma, the
traditional anti-establishment, working
class team and Lazio, the slightly more
staid club. Make sure you know which
colors to wear(red/yellow or blue/white) and
how to identify team symbols– very useful
when arguing with a taxi driver.Museum
Fact: Rome's museum traverse ancient
to contemporary art, but there are several
offbeat culture caches as well including:
a Pasta museum, Horror museum(by
director Dario Argento), a Purgatory
museum, Carabinieri museum(military
police), and the museum of police cars
and uniforms.Ancient History Fact: Rome
celebrates its 753 BC foundation every April
21st. All shops, businesses and schools
are closed in celebration of Romulus'
foundation of the city.Fake Fact: Most
Romans can trace their lineage back to
Julius Caesar and his merry men. More
likely, the true Roman is someone who
can trace his family heritage in Rome
only back seven generations.Bridge Fact:
The Ponte Rosso is Rome's oldest bridge
from the first century BC. It has been
damaged and repaired several times,
but to no success. Even Michelangelo
Buonarotti could not keep that bridge from
falling down.Food Fact: Rome has an ice
cream shop,gelateria, on ever corner which
feature flavors from traditionalcioccolato to
more fanciful tomato and basil. Everyone
has a favorite gelateria and everyone
has an opinion. Tanning Fact: Rome is
approximately 13 miles from the beachOstia- an easy and inexpensive train trip
for a quick tan- 20-minute and 1 euro via
ATAC, Rome's public transport
©
Random Fact: the majority of all souvenir
sellers are named either Marco or
42
Weather
Statistics
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Average High
13
14
16
18
23
26
29
30
26
22
17
14
Average Mean
32
32
32
32
32
32
32
32
32
32
32
32
Average Low
4
4
6
8
12
16
18
19
16
13
9
6
Average High
5
56
60
64
73
79
84
85
79
72
63
57
Average Mean
32
32
32
32
32
32
32
32
32
32
32
32
Average Low
39
40
43
47
54
61
65
66
62
56
48
42
Rainy Days
8
11
6
6
6
2
2
3
6
9
8
9
Rain Fall (cm)
3.8
3.7
3.2
5.2
2.7
1.7
1.2
1.4
4.1
8.9
6.2
5.6
Rain Fall (in)
1.5
1.5
1.3
2.0
1.0
0.7
0.5
0.5
1.6
3.5
2.5
2.2
Temperature C
Temperature F
© NileGuide
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Venice Snapshot
Local Info
Connected by nearly 400 bridges over
117 bodies of land and with 150 winding
canals to top it off, the City of Bridges is a
myriad of waterways and cobblestone paths
that will take you on an adorable journey
through this fragment of Italy's unique
history. Traffic-free streets give the city an
amazing air of quiet sophistication, marked
by plazas and extraordinary Catholic
churches, it's no wonder Venice is one of
Italy's most sought-after travel destinations.
Along the northeast coast of Italy, in the
region of Veneto, the city of Venice is
divided in half by what you might call"Main
Street," a waterway known as the Grand
Canal, a romantic lovers' paradise. Gondola
taxis take visitors from one island to
another, often tagging on a little singing for
an extra buck or two. Still, the price is worth
it as this is one of the most unique cities
in the world which, despite huge influxes
of tourists each year, maintains a sense of
dignity and culture unlike any other.
Multi-colored marble pillars and onionlike domes are hardly comparable when
it comes to the great basilicas of the
world and St. Mark's Basilica is a classic.
Floor-to-ceiling mosaics and numerous
museums along the main plaza are not to
be missed. Of course, feeding the pigeons
and snapping photos against this majestic
backdrop is an obligation for first timers.
Nearby at Murano Island you can take
in the traditions of glass blowing with a
demonstration performed by artisans who
have been passing down the technique
for generations. Beautiful hand-made
jewelry and sculpture are also available for
purchase for those who simply can't resist.
Further into the lagoon you'd best be
advised to literally get lost. Part of the
excitement of this city is exploration and
the best way to do it is simply by walking.
Cross bridges, peek into antique stores,
stop off for some delicious gelato, and
simply follow the winding paths. Few places
in the world are built to such a human
scale, allowing you to use your most basic
means of transportation, your feet, to really
appreciate the city.
Each year for 40 days preceding Easter
is the world-famous Carnevale, in which
festivities dating back to 1162 crowd the
streets and plazas with performers dawning
costumes and masks that will delight your
fantasies for years to come. Porcelain,
leather, and feathers – these are things
that dreams are made of, and Venice falls
perfectly in line with these characteristics, a
dream waiting to be explored.
way. The population mostly accepted their
government, and, as there was such a
large population, there were few internal
divisions. The majority were reasonably
well off, which meant that society was fairly
stable.
© NileGuide
Struggles with the Ligurian city of Genoa
were a problem until a century later, in
1380, after the war of Chioggia. At this
point it was no longer a military obstacle,
and even though they now had control of
the eastern routes only commercial rivalry
remained.
History
According to official historical accounts, one
of the first important events in the history
of Venice was the election of the first doge,
a type of magistrate, by the Byzantines in
697. His name was Paoluccio Anafesto.
The domination of Byzantium is much
talked about but has little factual basis.
However, the city was already established
in 811 when it moved to the Rivoalto,
which is now called Rialto, from the islands
around Torcello and Malamocco. Agnello
Partecipazio was the doge at this time. The
remains of San Marco were brought to the
city in 829, rescued by two fishermen.
The city had more or less taken on its
current appearance by 1000, when it
was governed by Pietro Tribun. The
ordination of power took place in 1177,
when Alessandro III met with the Emperor
Federico, to negotiate relations between
the papacy, the council and the empire.
However, in 1204 the situation changed
when, after providing ships and equipment
for the fourth crusade, Venice first received
help to re-conquer Zara. This unusual
crusade started out to conquer Jerusalem,
but ended up sharing out the remains of
the Byzantine Empire; Venice won control
of a huge part of the spoils. Thanks to a
commercial policy that also set up a strict
military stronghold, the territories became
their rightful property.
The state evolved with the decree of
the Great Council in 1297. This act only
permitted citizens to participate in the
Council if their ancestors had served on it.
As a result the number of nobles in power
increased which guaranteed, in theory,
that they would continue to hold power
even if a rival faction took over. As a result,
political struggles were poisoned by many
private feuds. According to Bartolo da
Sassoferrato, although it is true that the
nobility were not much respected by the
people, they had more respect than in other
cities which were governed in the same
Events that took place around the middle of
the 15th Century would change the fate of
the Mediterranean forever. The expansion
on the mainland, and the conquest of a
great part of Lombardy was the driving
force in successive alliances to overthrow
an overwhelming power, the first of which
was the definitive fall of Constantinople to
the Turks. The trade routes, which were the
basis of the Italian states, became insecure,
and mercantile trade started to decline.
The final straw was the discovery of the
American continent. The Mediterranean
was on the brink of becoming a kind of lake
under the threat of the Ottoman Empire. For
many, it was the beginning of the end.
Although Venice had a somewhat overrated
victory at Lepanto, Cyprus fell and the
loss of Crete in 1669 was the ultimate
insult. Thirty years later, Venice regained
possession of Morea for a period of twenty
years. The Turkish wars ended in 1718
with the overwhelming victory of the Turks.
Venice then enjoyed its last century of
freedom under the rule of the nobility; in
1797, Napoleon handed it to Austria, after
feigned negotiations. In 1805 he returned to
Venice and completed the domination of the
city. The industrial structures were knocked
down and the city became a shadow of
its former self. In 1848-9, it was invaded
again by the Hapsburgs, and in 1866, it was
united with the Kingdom of Italy.
©
Hotel Insights
Venice attracts many different kinds of
people, who come here for many different
reasons. In comparison with other Italian
cities,"hospitality" in Venice doesn't come
cheap; this may be due to the romantic
environment(Venice is known as one of
44
Venice Snapshot continued
world's"Cities of Love"), or the fact that
because Venice has a very particular set
up, transport and services are much more
expensive, making the hotels more costly.
Venice is crowded throughout the year
with tourists; a word of advice; however, if
you visit during the Carnevale or the Film
Festival, you need to book well in advance.
If that doesn't ensure you a room, try the
hotels in Treviso, Mestre or Padua.
San Marco
The hotels in this wonderful city have many
different qualities: some have historical
importance, some offer the best service and
some have spawned Italian myths. Many
lodgings in the vicinity of Piazza San Marco
perfectly fit this category. The Bauer Hotel,
the Westin Europa& Regina, the Hotel
Gritti Palace and the Hotel Monaco& Grand
Canal are some of the best.
Dorsoduro
Are these places a little too pricey for you?
There are accommodations with lower
prices and bags of charm in this primarily
residential part of the city: Pensione
Seguso and Pensione La Calcina. These
are great options if looking to stay near the
museums and attractions.
Castello
Near these hotels is Venice's Youth Hostel.
If this is full there are also hundreds of
rooms to rent(popular with students),
economical boarding houses and
establishments run by religious orders
e.g. Foresteria Valdese. If looking for
more private accommodation without
the curfew(even though there isn't much
to do in Venice after 10p), the Hotel La
Residenza can offer guests the chance to
be close to all.
Lido
L'Hotel des Bains, in Lido, witnessed the
disastrous love felt by a middle-aged Dirk
Bogarde in the filmDeath in Venice? And
then there's the Westin Excelsior, which
has played host to numerous international
screen stars during the annual Film
Festival. If looking for more affordable
accommodate away from the tourist-filled
San Marco and the Rialto, but still close
enough to all the sites and transportation,
the Albergo Quattro Fontane is very popular
during Film Festival season and during the
summer months.
Outside the City
Still not found a place to suit you? More and
more people are choosing to stay in Mestre,
just across the lagoon, which is served
by many buses and trains. If you choose
to stay here, the sense of romance may
decrease but so will the prices you pay, and
rest assured, you'll find a wide choice of
comfortable hotels.
If you don't mind the distance and you have
a car, you could stay in Riviera del Brenta.
There are several villas here, which have
been transformed into princely residences.
This area is also less expensive than
Venice.
If you like camping then you have to go to
Mestre, or Cavallino to pitch your tent or
park your caravan. The sites here are well
equipped and are linked to San Marco by
motorboats.
©
The restaurants in Venice offer a
wide variety of cuisines, ranging from
international fast food to five-star Italian
dishes. Many of the specialties are seafood
based, and there are excellent vegetables
in-season from the gardens of the Isola
di Sant'Erasmo. In autumn, look out for
theTorbolino: an immature Pinot Nero
whose arrival announces that winter is on
its way.
For a light snack try an osteria or bar
which servescicchetti(meaning"a pick-meup"), usually meatballs, fried vegetables,
anchovies, olives and cured meats, or even
a sandwich, whose delicious dough is made
from the city water.
Rialto
There are many bars and osterie close to
the Rialto Market, which serve fresh food—
they are subject to a quality control, which
is carried out daily by the local residents.
Places like Da Pinto offer high-quality
Venetian dishes that cater to locals and
tourists alike. Venice loves to have a good
drink, as does the whole of the Veneto
region. There are many popular wine
bars that have become real institutions.
Unnamed house wines of varying quality
can be found everywhere; to be sure of a
good bouquet try Do Mori. A few years ago
the Da Fiore, also in this area, was named
best restaurant in the world.
San Marco
A lot of Venice's top-quality gourmet
restaurants can be found in San Marco, the
most prestigious area of the city. Harry's
Bar is a name to remember, as are Do
Forni and Antico Pignolo. One of the other
cafes located in the piazza, famous for it's
coffees, teas, desserts and light lunches,
Caffè Florian looks out onto the piazza
and offers an exquisite, unforgettable
experience.
Cannaregio, Santa Croce& San Polo
Situated near Piazzale Roma and the
University, off the tourist trail, Campo Santa
Margherita is always reasonable. This area
consists predominantly of pubs, bakeries,
gelaterie(ice cream shops) and pizzerias,
which cater for a mostly student clientèle.
In summer it's the only area that stays open
until late at night, much against the will of
the elderly population in this district. This
is also the"artistic" quarter, where actors,
directors, architects, designers and a range
of other artistic types hang out. Antico Dolo
is one of the most popular eateries that can
be found in these districts.
©
Nightlife Insights
Venice is quite a sleepy city, especially
when you compare it to other major cities
of the world. There are several reasons
for this. The first is the high average age
of its citizens is one of the highest in Italy.
The second is the relative difficulty getting
around. This is not a place for cars and
other private means of transport, and a
boat ride is not really ideal for an evening
out. Finally, there is a lack of space for new
development in Venice.
Cannaregio
Besides, by nature Venetians do things
differently. They enjoy entertaining friends
in the privacy of their own homes. As
a consequence, there are very few
restaurants which stay open until late—
to the point where going for something
to eat after the cinema would be a major
feat. It is only relatively recently that some
restaurants with live music have reopened:
Il Paradiso perduto, in the Misericordia
district, is noted for its ambiance and its
endless disputes with local residents.
45
Dorsoduro& San Polo
Campo Santa Margherita in the summer
is an exception to this rule. The presence
of hundreds of students on break
transforms the square into a pleasure
pavilion, with restaurants, live music and
extemporaneous art exhibitions. Amongst
the most popular are those at Margaret
Duchamp, the Caffè Rosso and Ai Sportivi.
Another exception is during the Carnevale
in February. In September, Campo San
Polo houses an open-air cinema, where
you can sit under the stars and watch
recently films at the Biennale Cinema.
San Marco& Rialto
The opening seasons of the Teatro Goldoni,
the operatic-symphonic Teatro La Fenice
and the Malibran) attempt to shift the
winter-blues. For those who like a gamble,
there are three Casinos: one on the Canal
Grande, one in the Lido and the other in
Mestre by the airport.
Lido
Finally, there is the Lido—an island that
makes this waterlogged city go bathingmad. But even here, whether you like it
or not, the emphasis is on Thomas Mann,
rather than Maracaibo. The beach is
extremely beautiful, but where it is most
beautiful, it is also the most expensive.
Where the sand runs out, towards the
Murazzi islands, the water is dirty and there
are breakwaters.
Outside the City
In short, one will search in vain for
nocturnal activities. There simply is not
anything to do. However, if you really
can't do without nightlife, you can drive to
Piazzale Roma(a true Venetian would need
a very good justification for doing so) and
then on to Jesolo.
©
A visit to Venice can last a few hours, many
months, a few years or the rest of your life;
it all depends on what you want to do. It's
also possible to take tours to Venice that
dwell more on the surrounding area, since
the actual city is not that large.
Tour One: San Marco
The Basilica di San Marco at the heart of
the city is a must see. There is little else
that illustrates the relationship between
Venice and Byzantium so perfectly. The
central plan of the basilica is a Greek cross
with five large domes, one of which is at
the extremity of the cross, and one at the
crossing of the transept. The main façade
looks out over the Piazza San Marco, with
four portals that lead into the body of the
church. There were originally five portals,
but one, facing towards the Piazzetta, has
been transformed into a large window.
Immediately next to the church, and in
perfect harmony with its neighbor is the
Palazzo Ducale. Built as a simple castle,
this has evolved into a symbol of Italian
architecture and engineering from the
proto-modern period. It is home to art works
of exceptional importance, but unfortunately
has also lost many pieces to fire at different
times. On the other side of the Piazzetta
is the National Marciana Library, which
contains treasures of Renaissance wisdom
that emerged in Venice when the city was
relatively free of censorship. Many texts
are marked as published in Argentina, but
in reality they were the work of thousands
of Venetian printers, who produced them
in secret. In the Counter-Reformation, the
activity of these printers helped to maintain
a situation of free communication between
different groups. The Museo Correr, which
is part of the circuit of city museums, is
also in Piazza San Marco. This museum is
dedicated to the history and culture of the
city, but also contains other exhibits. Under
the Procuratie, and above the historic
Caffè Florian, is the Museo Archeologico.
The Greek community meets right behind
San Marco, in the Chiesa di San Giorgio
dei Greci church, which is adjacent to
the museum of Byzantine Icons. In the
Fondaco dei Tedeschi at the foot of the
Rialto Bridge you will find the Post Office,
while the National History Museum is
located in the Fondaco dei Turchi.
Tour Two: Castello and Dorsoduro
The Scuola di San Giorgio degli Schiavoni
was started in the secular tradition of
the city by the Dalmati, who defended it
strenuously until the fall of the Republic. It
now holds the Carpaccio cycle, which is of
exceptional importance.
Art lovers shouldn't miss the Gallerie
dell'Accademia, by the bridge of the same
name, which houses some treasures of
Venetian painting dating from the height of
its splendor in the 16th Century.
Tour Three: Cannaregio
Slightly off the traditional tourist route are
sites belonging to ethnic and religious
minorities. The secular tolerance of the
Republic allowed the persecuted a place
to live peacefully in Venice. The Island of
San Lazzaro degli Armeni is the center
of Armenian Diaspora culture, and there
is the Moorat Raphael Palace, near San
Sebastian. Venice can also boast the first
ghetto in history."Ghetto" is a Venetian
word, derived from"getto," referring to the
cast of foundries originally in the area, who
moved away for security reasons. The
word"getto" became"ghetto" since Jewish
immigrants from Germany had difficulty
pronouncing the Italian"g." A museum and
synagogues can be visited here.
Tour Four: The Islands
Don't miss out on a visit to the islands,
which are an integral part of the city's
history. Torcello was one of the first to
be settled; it was then abandoned as it
became unhealthy. There is also Murano,
home of blown glass, and Burano, an island
of colour and lace. Venice is not just a city
of stone, if you hire a boat(although you
need to be very specific about the boat
you want in a city surrounded by water!)
you can cruise through areas of nature for
hours in the northern lagoon near Burano.
Sights to see include the Convento di San
Francesco del Deserto and the valleys.
Travelling southwards, you will come across
Chioggia and the lagoon of Cason dei sette
morti(Lagoon of the Seven Dead). Enjoy
oases of fauna, archaeological areas, and
hidden islands.
Tour Five: Outside the City
Once back onterra firma, you can visit
Brenta and its river, or take in its beautiful
villas. From Malcontenta up to Vicenza
and the Villa Capra Valmarana, Padovan
architectural influences are visible. Pop into
Padua(10-30 minutes by train) if you want
and visit the Specola observatory, which
belonged to Galileo, who worked for Venice
as a mathematician.
©
Travel Tips
Getting There
By Air
46
The Marco Polo Airport(VCE)(+39 41 260
6111/http://www.veniceairport.com) is
tucked inland, seven miles north of Venice.
Major airlines include:
Aer Lingus(+1 800 474 7424/http://
www.aerlingus.com)
Aeroflot(+1 888 686 4949/http://
www.aeroflot.ru/eng)
Air Canada(+1 888 247 2262/http://
www.aircanada.com)
Air Dolomiti(+39 045 2886140/http://
www.airdolomiti.it)
Air France(+1 800 871 1366/http://
www.airfrance.com)
Alitalia(+1 800 223 5730/http://
www.alitalia.com)
Alpi Eagles(+39 049 979 35 11/http://
www.alpieagles.com)
BMI(+1 800 788 0555/ http://
www.flybmi.com)
British Airways(+1 800 247 9297/http://
www.ba.com)
Cathay Pacific(+1 800 231 0856/http://
www.cathaypacific.com)
Delta(+1 800 221 1212/http://
www.delta.com)
Easy Jet(+871 244 2366/http://
www.easyjet.com)
Finnair(+1 800 950 5000/http://
www.finnair.com)
Iberia(+1 800 772 4642/http://
www.iberia.com)
Jet 2(+44 207 150 0374/http://
www.jet2.com)
KLM(+1 800 374 7747/http://www.lkm.nl)
Lufthansa(+1 800 645 3880/http://
www.lufthansa.com)
Malev(+1 800 223 6884/http://
www.malev.com)
My Air(+44 2073651597/http://
www.myair.com)
Northwest(+1 800 225 2525/http://
www.nwa.com)
Norwegian Air Shuttle(+47 21 49 00 15/
http://www.norwegian.no)
Polish Airlines(+1 212 789 0970/http://
www.lot.com)
SAS(+1 800 221 2350/http://
www.flysas.com)
Europcar(+39 041 541 5654/http://
www.europcar.com)
Sterling Airlines(+44 0870 787 8038/http://
www.sterling.dk)
By Train
Swiss Airways(+1 877 359 7947/http://
www.swiss.com)
TAP Portugal( +351 707 205 700/http://
www.flytap.com)
Thomson Fly(+43 0192 89 598/http://
www.thomsonfly.com)
United(+1 800 538 2929/ http://
www.united.com)
US Airways(+1 800-622-1015/http://
www.usairways.com)
Wind Jet(+39 899 65 65 05/http://
www.volawindjet.it)
ATVO(+39 041 541 5180) Connects
passengers between Marco Polo Airport
and Piazzale Roma in Venice. Line 35ATVO Air Terminal(blue buses) depart
every 20-30 minutes and rides take
about 20 minutes. Fares: EUR3 one-way,
EUR5.50 roundtrip. Hours: 05:00-24:20.
ACTV(+39 041 541 5180) Line 5 departs
every 30 minutes and lasts 20 minutes.
Because its fares are cheaper these buses
tend to be crammed with commuters,
making it very cumbersome to carry and
stow luggage. Fares: EUR 1. Hours:
04:05-11:10.
Alilaguna(+39 041 240 1701) The Blu
line goes from Marco Polo Airport to San
Marco. Rides last 60-75 minutes. Fares:
EUR 12. Hours: 4:00-24:10.
Yellow taxis(+39 041 541 6363) are easy to
locate outside the terminal. Rides last 15-20
minutes and generally cost EUR 40.
Water taxis, or motoscafi(+39 041 522
2303), can be found at the main dock just
outside the airport's arrival hall to the left.
Rides last 40 minutes and are expensive,
starting at EUR 80 for two riders. Expect to
pay supplements for baggage and groups
exceeding four riders. Credit cards are not
accepted.
Rental Car Companies
Avis(+1 800 831 2847/http://www.avis.com)
Hertz(+1 800 654 3131/http://
www.hertz.com)
Italy's national train company,
Trenitalia(http://www.trenitalia.com), serves
Venice's Santa Lucia Station(+39 041 524
5346) daily. All trains to and from Santa
Lucia stop at Mestre on the mainland.
By Bus
Italy lacks a national bus company,
consequently independent bus lines only
service their respective regions. If you
travel cross-continent ride a Euroline(http://
www.euroline.com) bus to Milan. From
there, board an ATVO bus(+39 041 520
5530/http://www.atvo.it) to Venice's bus
station at Piazzale Roma.
By Car
Autostrada 4(A4) originates in Trieste to the
east and continues past Venice to Milan in
the west. The Ponte della Liberta connects
the mainland with Venice.
Getting Around
By Gondola
Gondolas, the symbol of Venice, are easy
to locate but eye-popping expensive(a
50 minute ride starts at EUR 70). Make
sure you agree to a price before boarding
and don't be shy about haggling over the
fare: most gondoliers initially ask for twice
the going rate. Try to avoid low tide when
rancid odors peak and, if possible, ride
late afternoon or early evening when the
Grand Canal's boat traffic significantly
subsides. San Marco(+39 041 520 0685)
and Rialto(+39 041 522 4904) are two of
the more prominent gondola stands.
By Traghetti
If regular gondola fares exceed your budget
consider boarding a traghetto. These twoman gondolas ferry people across the
Grand Canal for only EUR 0.50. Rides last
but a few minutes.
By Waterbus
ACTV's waterbuses, or vaporetti, offer
several lines that cover the entire length
of the Grand Canal. A 60 minute ticket
costs EUR 6. Or opt for the popular 24-hour
tourist ticket for EUR 15. Hours: 6:00-21:00,
some run 24 hours. Spiffy looking
powerboats known as motoscafi(+39 041
522 2303) offer quick maneuverability but
47
charge a stiff price. For just a short ride
across the Grand Canal they've been to
known to charge as much as EUR 120.
By Foot
Walking is the best and most popular
means for exploring Venice. There are no
cars to dodge and Venice's 409 bridges
make it possible to walk from end-to-end in
35 minutes.
By Bicycle
Major Industry: Tourism
Bicycles are not permitted in Venice.
©
Electricity: 220 volts, 50 Hz; standard twopin plugs
Time Zone: GMT+ 1
Fun Facts
Country Dialing Code: 39
Venice
Area Code: 041
Country: Italy
Did You Know?
By Car
Venice by the Numbers:
Cars can cross the Ponte della Liberta(the
small stretch of road that connects Venice
with the mainland) but must then endure
the impossible task of finding parking in one
of Venice's two main garages. It is best to
either park on the mainland in Mestre and
cross on a bus or boat, or phone months
in advance to reserve a parking spot. Call
either Garage San Marco(+39 041 523
5101) or Isola Del Tronchetto(+39 041 520
7555).
Population: 62,000; 1,600,000 PadovaVenice metro area
Venice is built on 117 islands, features 150
canals and over 400 bridges.
Orientation:
Land Area: 177 square miles
Average Annual Rainfall: 34 inches
Average January Temperature: 38 degrees
F/ 3 degrees C
Average July Temperature: 75 degrees F/
23 degrees C
Venice is situated in Italy's northeast corner
known as the Veneto region, just off the
coast in the Adriatic Sea. Trieste rests 97
miles to the east, Milan 165 to the west,
and Rome 327 miles to the southwest.
©
Quick Facts:
Weather
Statistics
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Average High
6
8
12
16
21
25
27
28
23
18
11
7
Average Mean
3
4
8
12
17
20
23
23
19
14
8
4
Average Low
0
0
4
8
13
16
18
18
15
10
5
1
Average High
44
47
55
62
71
77
82
83
75
65
53
46
Average Mean
38
40
47
54
63
69
74
74
67
58
47
40
Average Low
32
33
40
47
56
62
66
65
59
51
41
35
Rainy Days
6
6
7
9
8
8
7
7
5
7
9
8
Rain Fall (cm)
2.1
2.4
2.4
5.4
4.7
5.5
5.1
3.8
4.6
5.9
4.6
3.0
Rain Fall (in)
0.8
0.9
0.9
2.1
1.9
2.2
2.0
1.5
1.8
2.3
1.8
1.2
Temperature C
Temperature F
© NileGuide
48

Venice and Beyond

Transcription

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