A centre of medieval European trade and finance, Florence (or Firenze) is often considered the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance.

In fact, it has been called the Athens of the Middle Ages. Long under the de facto rule of the Medici family, Firenze was also the capital of the Kingdom of Italy in the mid 19th Century.

The city lies on the River Arno and is renowned for its history and its importance in the Middle Ages and in the Renaissance, especially for its art and architecture.

Little wonder that I find its coat of arms SO intriguing, infinitely inspiring :) (or that I'd be marrying an Italian LOL)