Subject: Loggia dei Lanzi, aka Loggia della Signoria, constructed 1376-1382

As the gray tendrils of night fade, they wake, as they have countless mornings before. Soon the world will arrive. The play is about to begin again: power, beauty, struggle, anguish. And though time has left its marks, they take their places proudly, ready to share their stories once more.

Subject: Michelangelo's David, unveiled 1504  

You’ve read about him and heard the stories—this icon of history. Turning the corner, you see him across the crowd, bathed in light, graciously meeting his visitors. Before long, they step away, and you find yourself face-to-face with David. Awe and admiration swell into astonishment, then quiet reflection. You came with lofty expectations—David exceeds them effortlessly.

Subject: Museo Marino Marini

Stepping into the Museo Marino Marini, you’re struck by the contrast between its elegant, modern design and the raw, muscular, and primitive energy of Marini's sculptures. His 20th-century works explore a range of emotions—from the solemn wisdom of le donne (women) to the exuberance of i cavalieri (knights) and the trials of i guerrieri (warriors). Moving through the exhibit is a journey into the life of an artist who probed the human condition and offered it for our reflection.

Subject: Ponte Vecchio, est 1345

The energy of Ponte Vecchio mirrors its shape, peaking at midday. Before dawn, the bridge is quiet, its iconic shops closed while the river flows undisturbed below. Runners and locals appear, followed by the opening of shops and the arrival of visitors. By midday, the bridge teems with life, a bustling mix of people and selfies. 

As the day wanes, the energy fades slowly, quickening after sunset. In the evening, musicians entertain lingering crowds until the last applause is given and coin is dropped. Then, Ponte Vecchio rests, waiting for a new day.

Subject: Arno River

Ever-present. Mostly calm. Rarely angry. The Arno reflects the astonishing city it has witnessed since its birth. Flowing gently through and beneath Florence’s proud monuments, it offers no judgment, no sermon—only a quiet reminder that time moves on.

Subject: Gates of Florence, varies 1284-1334

"It’s still standing." The thought arises unbidden at the appearance of any of the great gates and towers of the old city. The walls are long gone, and now they overlook streets, crosswalks, and busy shoppers. Yet they remain tall and proud, as if someone forgot to tell them, "The city is safe now. You can rest."

Subject: San Miniato al Monte, est. 1018

San Miniato al Monte offers a rich tapestry of experiences: the climb to the hilltop, the basilica’s striking facade, the medieval chants of Olivetan monks, deep golden hues, poignant frescoes, and a surprising, beautiful crypt. Yet within these stark contrasts, you sense a purposeful humility, a space where peace and divinity sit side by side.

As you step back out into the sunlight, you notice an inscription under your feet: "haec est porta coeli." This is the gateway to heaven.

Subject: Piazzale Michelangelo, est. 1869

From the height of Piazzale Michelangelo, Florence’s red-tiled rooftops stretch like a choppy sea of terracotta. The city's iconic monuments rise above, islands of magnificence. As the sun sets, amber light bounces from wall to wall. The sea of rooftops undulates and darkens. When the sun finally dips behind the western hills, you can still make out an ocean of red—but now, it is painted by memory.

Subject: the Duomo, aka Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, est. 1296

Night brings stillness to the Duomo. By day, its towering heights and green and pink marble declare themselves loudly; in the darkness, they are subdued. The crowds have gone, the shops are closed, it’s just you, moving slowly through its quiet grandeur. Yet, even in this calm, it’s hard to capture the feeling. One moment, you experience peaceful reverence; the next, you gaze up in awe. Even in the stillness, the Duomo amazes.

Subject: Florence, founded 59 BC

The two lovers dance slowly, closely, holding each other tight. Their story is unknown, but it is nearing its end. This is their last dance, their final moments together. Time is pulling them apart, and they dance in grief and gratitude.

One day, I will have my last dance with this incredible, inspiring city—a dance of grief and gratitude.