We left Cathedral Square and made our way to another public square called Piazza Della Signoria. We walked through Piazza Della Repubblica and then along Via Dei Calzaiuoli before reaching our venue.
Piazza Della Repubblica
A hotel we past by.
A cafeteria we past by.
Piazza Della Signoria which was created in the 13th century is a very interesting public square. It features old and beautiful buildings, fountains and sculptures that depict Florence's glorious past. This pedestrianized square is like an open sculpture museum with many pieces of artwork for visitors to admire.
The most prominent building seen at the square is Palazzo Vecchio which currently serves as the town hall of Florence.
Palazzo Vecchio which was completed in 1322 has the appearance of a fortress topped by a huge open gallery from which rises the slender tower known as Arnolfo Tower.
These are some detailed pictures of the palazzo.
Statues of David (LHS) and Hercules & Cacus (RHS) are seen guarding the entrance into the palazzo.
A walk inside the palazzo reveals that it is not only impressive outside but is equally mesmerizing on the interior.
Intricate pillars, fine paintings on walls and ceiling.
The beautiful courtyard
To the right of the palazzo is Uffizi Gallery, Italy's top art museum.
In front of the palazzo is Neptune Fountain. Installed in 1575, this fountain features the Sea God Neptune surrounded by nymphs to celebrate the victories of the Tuscan Navy.
Another facade of Neptune Fountain
A different facade of Neptune Fountain
Another facade of Neptune Fountain
In the vicinity stands an open air sculpture gallery called Loggia dei Lanzi which features some interesting statues.
The most famous is perhaps the bronze statue of Perseus holding the head of Medusa.
Statues entitled 'The Rape of Polyxena' by Italian sculptor Pio Fedi are also exhibits.
Slightly further to the right of the palazzo stands the bronze equestrian statue of the Great Duke Cosimo I. All these statues were first created by world renowned artists like Michelangelo, Cellini, etc but most of the original statues have been moved to museums all over Italy. The statues on display are mostly replicas.
Bordering the square are cafes, restaurants, shops and houses that date from the 14th to the 16th centuries.
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