Italy stands as the eurozone's third largest economy, and its recent trials have embodied the financial crisis that has enveloped the region since 2009. While the International Monetary Fund (IMF) have suggested that the Italian economy has shown signs of stabilizing recently, there is still much to be achieved before the nation can exit its longest recession since the early 1990's.
In terms of reversing this prolonged economic decline, tourism appears to be the most powerful tool in the Italianarmory. A nation distinguished by rich cultural history and numerous attractions of staggering beauty, Italy has a geographic advantage that can draw visitors and bring an estimated $50 billion of GDP (Gross Domestic Product).
Visiting Florence: The Jewel in Italy's Tourism Crown
Florence is one of Italy's most alluring tourism resorts, and represents a glittering jewel in the nation's crown. It is a renaissance city that is situated in the heart of Tuscany, and it is also home to some of the nation's finest museums and religious buildings. If you are planning a tour holiday to Florence, however, you will need to identify the region's best popular attractions in order to create a suitable itinerary. Consider the following: -
Il Duomo, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
Perhaps Florence's most popular tour destination, the Il Duomo Cathedral boasts an historical legacy that stretches right back to the 13th century. Designed in 1296 and consecrated in 1436, it can hold a staggering 20,000 visitors and represents a masterpiece of large scale architecture and construction. With a multi-coloured exterior of green, pink and glistening white marble, it is fitted with elegantly fitted doors and even draws visitors from beyond the picturesque boundaries of Santa Maria del Fiore. Many international visitors flock to climb the 463 steps towards Il Duomo's summit, and it remains one of the most widely visited tour locations.
The Baptistery, in Piazza San Giovanni
An even older example of Renaissance architecture can be traced back to the 11th century, and the grandiose Baptistery of John the Baptist. This is actually Florence's oldest building, and another that features the unique aesthetic combination of green and white marble. It is another resort frequently visited by the nation's leading tour operators, with its staggeringly well reproduced bronze entrances represented a seminal achievement in aesthetic beauty. There are also a number of fascinating artefacts kept safely inside, including a marvellous marble pavement of the zodiac.
The Galleria degli Uffizi
While the Galleria degli Uffizi may not be Florence's most picturesque buildings, it is perhaps the most seminal. The museum is known to hold the worlds most important and comprehensive Renaissance art, and it is this bounty of unique treasure that draws tour visitors from all corners of the globe. Offering a fascinating insight into the history of art from medieval times to the contemporary period, it the Uffizi showcases thousands of paintings alongside antique sculptures, illuminations and tapestries. Including renowned artists such as Michelangelo, Giotto, Botticelli, Raphael, Perugino and Leonardo da Vinci, it represents a must see location for anyone with a passion for history and its relationship with art.
This post was written by Laura, who is a British based e-commerce web designer and travel enthusiast from the UK. He recommends that online firms use advanced tour operator software to help with the booking process, and deliver a more enhanced experience to unique visitors.
