I have heard that when people visit Florence they actually swoon (as in Room with a View) as they are overcome by the art and history. This has happened to me only once and it wasn't in Florence but in Toledo, in the cathedral to be exact. The Gothic cathedral is a marvel of art and atmosphere. One can truly feel the centuries of continuity. The amount of art, statues, glass, metalwork, woodwork, books, old master paintings, is staggering. Unfortunately we got a late start and only spent the afternoon and evening in the city, so I would recommend getting there early so as to have enough time to see everything.

The convenient and modern escalator system rising up the side of the hill can be hard to spot when walking from the train station so if you want to take this route it's probably best to ask for directions at the station before setting off. Going the long away around through the main gate, however, affords the experience of entering the city the way one probably would have back in the Middle Ages.

As we were about to leave we happened upon a candlelight procession in honor of the Mater Dolorosa winding its way through the streets, a lovely and romantic way to end the day.