Museums tend to hold the majority of cherished and prized Italian art. However, outside a number of Florentine residents add to the outdoor museum of the city. Part of what I love about Florence is its cohesive architecture, the city’s ability to stick to one style even throughout newer, more modern buildings. Part of that appeal lies in nearly every piazza and around every corner. There is some sort of statue to be seen, admired, and yes, even feared. The more famous, the lesser known, the symbolic and the evil eyed are among my favorites in Florence.
Rape of the Sabine Woman by Giambologna in Loggia dei Lanzi
Autumn by Giovanni Caccini on Ponte Santa Trinita
Dietrofronte in Porta Romana
Dante Alighieri in Piazza Santa Croce
From Adventurous Kate:
Thank you for not including Neptune.
While I hate the thought of art being destroyed, when it comes to this statue, the aesthete vandals amuse me greatly…
From adam:
Hey Suzy! Great shots. I’ve never been to Florence but it’s probably the city I’d most like to visit in all of Italy.
Also, have you seen this article about Florence sculptures and who owns them? Quite a silly discussion in my opinion, but really interesting the implications it could have:
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/09/01/world/europe/01david.html
From Suzy Guese:
Yes, I saw this Italian squabble. Thanks for the reminder though that in Italy, you are a citizen of your city first and foremost and then Italy. I imagine that’s the main problem with the David. He is Florentine first and Italian second. Very interesting implications.
From Andi:
Fantastic! I love European sculptures.
From Sabina:
Pretty! I like the rock on the lady’s head in Dietrofronte, personally.
From Elle:
Thanks for sharing! I wish my city had more beautiful art featured in it’s plazas.
From Marie:
Tank you for this post, I am preparing for a trip to Florence and will definitely visit one or two of the statues you posted.
From Jenna:
Nice! The Rape of the Sabine Women is one of my favorites (I love the shape and fluidity), and that loggia is so great, too.
When it comes to art being around every corner, few places can compare to Florence.