Florence: A Traveller's Reader

This Traveller's Reader brings to life the rich and glorious past of Florence through letters, diaries, and memoirs of travelers and Florentines from past centuries, including Boccaccio, Vasari, Michaelangelo, Elizabeth Barrett Browning, and D.H. Lawrence. Sir Harold Acton's introduction provides a concise history of the city.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 416 pages
Publication date: 28 June 2018
Publisher: Little, Brown Book Group

Florence, a city steeped in cultural heritage and captivating beauty, holds a special place in the hearts of travelers worldwide. Its rich and illustrious past, meticulously documented in this collection, unfolds like a tapestry, weaving together letters, diaries, and memoirs of explorers who have ventured to this enchanting destination and the Florentines themselves.

Of all Italian cities, Florence has always possessed a distinctive English accent, earning it the moniker "ville tout anglaise" by the Goncourt brothers in 1855. While this accent may have faded over time, Florence remains a beloved and frequented city for English-speaking travelers, holding its timeless charm and allure.

In this captivating Traveller's Reader, Florence's rich and glorious past springs to life, captivating the modern tourist through a diverse range of letters, diaries, and memoirs. Cultural historian Edward Chaney has carefully selected excerpts that transport readers back in time, offering glimpses into the city's history from various eras.

Among the captivating extracts are writings by renowned figures such as Boccaccio, who delved into the devastating effects of the Black Death on Florentine society. Vasari's account of the construction of Giotto's Campanile provides a fascinating insight into the architectural marvel that dominates the city's skyline. An eyewitness account of Michaelangelo's installation of his iconic David sculpture adds a touch of awe and wonder to the narrative. The death of Elizabeth Barrett Browning at the Casa Guidi, a poignant moment in literary history, is also recounted, as is the perspective of D.H. Lawrence and Dylan Thomas on twentieth-century Florentine society.

Sir Harold Acton's introduction serves as a concise yet comprehensive historical journey, tracing Florence's origins from its humble beginnings to its zenith as a prosperous city-state that played a pivotal role in the Renaissance. His insights into the city's political, social, and cultural landscape add depth and context to the narrative. Sir Harold Acton, a man of letters, historian, aesthete, novelist, and poet, spent the majority of his life in Florence, leaving behind a legacy that includes the renowned book "The Last Medici: Memoirs of an Aesthete."

Florence's cultural heritage is a testament to its enduring significance and allure. This collection serves as a valuable guide for those seeking to explore the city's rich tapestry, offering a glimpse into its past, present, and future. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, Florence's timeless beauty and cultural richness will captivate your senses and leave an indelible mark on your heart.

Weight: 334g
Dimension: 130 x 196 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781472141293