Piazza dell Repubblica overview
Piazza della Repubblica is the largest square in Florence. It is located in one of the oldest sections of the town. The square was the site of the ancient Roman forum and some of its currently existing adjacent streets like: Via degli Strozzi, Via degli Speziali and Via del Corso configured the Decumanus Maximus, while Via Roma and Via Calimaia shaped the Cardus Maximus.
In 1861, subsequent to the annexation of Tuscany to the Kingdom of Italy, was projected the flattening of the Mercato Vecchio (Old Market) which was accomplished in 1870.
Therefore, Piazza della Repubblica was considerably enlarged and several significant ancient monuments and buildings were irremediably demolished.
Fortunately, a splendid column from the Mercato Vecchio could be saved and it is still standing on the square. The Roman column is crowned by the statue of “L’Abbondanza” (abundance) sculptured in the 18th century.
The dominant element of the presently imposing square is the outstanding “Arco del Trionfo” (triumphal arch) placed on its western side. It was completed in 1895. The “Arco del Trionfo” had been constructed to honour Florence as it had been designated capital city of the Kingdom of Italy, from 1865 to 1871, in the reign of Vittorio Emmanuele II. In 1871, Rome became definitively the capital city of Italy.
In 1890 was erected in Piazza della Repubblica the equestrian statue of King Vittorio Emmanuele II.
Piazza della Repubblica and its surrounding streets are lined with al fresco historic coffee bars and restaurants, as well as stylish clothing and shoe shops.
The most prestigious al fresco coffee bars located in Piazza della Repubblica and in its surroundings are:
- “Cafè Giubbe Rosse”(Piazza della Repubblica, 13-14). Since the beginning of the 20th century it has been the rendezvous of the most celebrated Italian and foreign literates, musicians and artists who resided in Florence. The tradition still continues with frequent lectures and performances. It is said that this Café is probably offering the best coffee and “capuccini” inFlorence.
- “Cafè Concerto Paszkowski”(Piazza della Repubblica, 31-35). It was built around 1850. It was originally an emblematic beer hall. Currently it is considered throughout Italy as an historic monument. In its superb indoors, as well as in the terrace Paszkowski offers snacks, lunches and dinners and a large variety of first class drinks.
- “Café Gilli” (Piazza della Repubblica, 39). It dates back to the first half of the 18th century. The large coffee bar has two beautiful original back panelled rooms. Gilli is famous in Florence for its excellent cocktails.
- “Cafè Rivoire” (Piazza della Signoria, 5). This noteworthy cafè/bistro is a must for both Italian and foreign visitors. It is a perfect place for enjoying a snack, a sandwich or to taste its delicious fresh pastries with a cappuccino. The specialty is its large variety of delicious chocolate pastries.
Popular and first class restaurants located in the neighbourhood of Piazza della Repubblica:
- “Cantinetta Antinori” ** (Piazza Antinori, 3). It is a small lovely and informal restaurant located on the ground floor of a wonderful Renaissance palace. It offers a traditional Florentine cuisine and a high-quality selection of the renowned Antinori wines.
- “Coquinaros” ** (Via delle Oche, 15). It is a tiny pleasant trattoria. Its strong point is a delicious variety of home made pasta. They have good Tuscan wines.
- “Antico Fattore” *** (Via Lambertesca, 1-3). It is an old charming trattoria from the beginning of the 20th century. It offers a select traditional Tuscan cuisine. Wines are really good.
- “Frescobaldi Wine Bar” *** (Via dei Magazzini, 2-4). It is a stylish both wine bar and restaurant. Lunch is quite informal whereas dinner is almost formal. Its refined creative cuisine is impressively offered. Wines come from the well-known Frescolbadi Tuscan cellars.
- “ Da I Latini” *** (Via del Palchetti, 6). It is a large popular trattoria always packed. Its success is mainly due to its first-rate grilled meats: don’t miss out their superb “bistecca alla fiorentina”. Chianti’s wines are worthy of a praise.
- “Buca Mario” **** (Piazza degli Ottaviani, 16). Having knowledge of this traditional both restaurant and cellar is indispensable. It preserves his genuine Florentine atmosphere and its local cuisine is as unpretentious as outstanding. Tuscan wines are also excellent.
- “Oliviero” ***** (Via delle Terme, 51). It is an elegant restaurant with an old fashioned romantic atmosphere. It offers a splendid creative cuisine based on local roots. Meat and fish dishes are a must. Wine list is high class.
Range of prices: ** 25/35 euros; ***35/45 euros; **** 44/55 euros; ***** more than 50 euros.
A selection of the stylish Clothing, Accessories, Lingerie, and Shoe shops placed in the proximities of Piazza della Repubblica:
Clothing/Accesories/Lingerie:
- Hermes (Piazza Antinori, 6r)
- La Perla (Via della Vigna Nuova, 17-19)
- Luisa Via Roma (Via Roma, 19-21)
- Raspini (Via Roma, 25-29)
- Intimo Tre (Via de Corso, 27)
- Matucci (Via del Corso, 71)
- Taf (Via Por Santa Maria, 17)
- Mandarina Duck (Via Por Santa Maria, 23)
Shoes:
- Divarese (Piazza del Duomo, 55)
- Bata (Via dei Calzaiouli, 110)
- Peppe Peluso (Via del Corso, 5-6)
- Romano (Via Porta Rossa, 14)
West Side of Florence
The Cathedrals : Basilica di Santa Maria Novella , Chiesa Santa Trinitá , Chiesa Ognissanti
Main Monuments :Piazza della Repubblica
Main Streets : Via Tornabuoni , Parco delle Cascine
Main Museums : Museo Marino Marini
Click here for compleate Florence Travel Guide
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