Florence is the story of how a single Tuscan city became the birthplace of the modern world’s artistic imagination. Understanding why demands looking beyond its postcard skyline.
From Roman outpost to Renaissance capital
Founded as a Roman colony in the 1st century BC, Florence rose to extraordinary prominence in the 14th and 15th centuries under the patronage of the Medici banking family, as chronicled in depth on Florence’s Wikipedia entry. Their wealth funded Brunelleschi’s dome, Botticelli’s studios, and the flourishing of humanist thought that became the Renaissance.
Why Florence, and not another city?
A rare convergence of banking wealth, competitive guilds, and patrons willing to fund radical artistic experimentation gave Florence an outsized influence still felt in art, architecture and political thought today.
Frequently asked questions
Why is Florence famous?
Florence is considered the birthplace of the Renaissance, home to masterpieces by Michelangelo, Botticelli and Brunelleschi, and the political cradle of modern banking under the Medici family.
When was Florence’s golden age?
Broadly the 14th to 16th centuries, coinciding with Medici patronage and the flourishing of Renaissance art, architecture and humanist philosophy.
Let our concierge design a private route through Florence’s Renaissance landmarks, paced to linger exactly where history comes alive.
Continue the story in person: this highly-rated small-group Uffizi Gallery tour with Vasari Corridor access is one of the best ways to see the art and history of Florence up close.
Want a guidebook to take with you? This Florence & Tuscany travel guide on Amazon is a handy companion for planning your own route through the city.
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