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Florence´s striking buildings, treasure-crammed churches and formidable galleries attest to the Florentine love of display. Even long after it had been eclipsed on the political and economic fronts. The cultural and historical impact of Firenze is overwhelming. Close up, however, the city is one of Italy's most atmospheric and pleasant, retaining a strong resemblance to the small late-medieval centre that contributed so much to the cultural and political development of Europe. The glory of Florence is rooted in its past.
The Medicis commanded the city's fortunes for centuries and, as patrons, they encouraged the Renaissance's influence on the city. They are attributed in today's Florence: their family crest of six balls still adorns many public buildings and their support of many artforms is evident in the city's streets.
Facts in a glance
Area: 3,514 sq km
Population: 374,500
Country: Italy
Time Zone: GMT/UTC +1 (Central European Time)
Telephone Area Code: 055
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