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Description: Founded by the Romans in the first century B.C., Florence began its rebirth after the decadence of the barbaric ages, in the Carolingian period, and reached its highest pinnacles of civilization between the 11th and 15th centuries, as a free city, balancing the authority of the Emperors with that of the Popes, overcoming the unfortunate internal... ( +expand to view full text )

Description: Founded by the Romans in the first century B.C., Florence began its rebirth after the decadence of the barbaric ages, in the Carolingian period, and reached its highest pinnacles of civilization between the 11th and 15th centuries, as a free city, balancing the authority of the Emperors with that of the Popes, overcoming the unfortunate internal dispute between Guelfs and Ghibellines. In the 15th century, it came under the rule of the Medici family, who later became the Grand Dukes of Tuscany. This in fact was the period when the city was at the height of its glory in art and culture, in politics and economic power. The Grand Duchy of the Medicis was succeeded, in the 18th century, by that of the House of Lorraine, when in 1860 Tuscany became part of the Kingdom of Italy of which Florence was the capital from 1865 to 1871. In this century, the city has once more taken up its role as an important centre for culture and the arts. Discover the city of Florence having a look at the monuments and museums, walking through our suggested itineraries and having a break in its beautiful parks and gardens, or, if you prefer, choose among our collections of Florence Virtual Tours. If you like to discover local food and drink have a look at the Florentine cuisine. Would you like to bring home a local souvenir? Don't forget to take note of the local typical markets of Florence, and, above of all, don't forget to make an excursion in the Florence' environs: visiting Tuscany and its beautiful cities like Siena, Pisa or Lucca.