Florence Quick Facts:

Region: Tuscany

Population: 493,000

Temp. in January: 41°F on average

Temp. in July: 95°F on average

Major Industries: Finance, Tourism, Wine Production

Electricity: 220 volts, 50 Hz; standard two-pin plug

Time Zone: GMT +1

Country Dialing Code: 39

Area Code: 055

Did You Know? In 1339 Florence became the first city in Europe with paved streets.

Orientation: Located in northwest Italy, less than 75 miles from the Tyrrhenian Coast, Florence stands as the capital of the Tuscany region.

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experience Florence

Italian Language SchoolsEven in the 21st Century, Florence hasn't lost the personality and flavor of a medieval village. The city is a rare find, where beautifully preserved architecture and stunning Renaissance masterpieces mesh seamlessly with trendy boutiques and modern cafes. This rich environment is ideal for studying Italian language and culture, as the past consistently meets the future, and the progression can be truly seen and appreciated.

Italian Language SchoolsThe Italian language was born in Florence thanks to the contributions of the classical writer Dante, after who the Centro Linguistico Italiano Dante Alighieri (CLIDA) is named. Florence was a fountain for progress. Here, Machiavelli developed modern political science and Galileo advanced modern experimental science. Scores of important Italian artists, such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Botticelli and Donatello lived and worked in Florence and their paintings, sculpture and architecture remain a glorious testament throughout the city's museums, churches and piazzas.

Today, Florence is an international cultural center. Its art, design and fashion schools, scientific institutes and cultural centers and academies, all contribute to the city's intense activity. Operas, ballets, plays, concerts, shows and exhibitions entertain visitors and locals year round.

Florence is the capital of Italy's Tuscany region. Tuscany is renowned as one of the most beautiful regions in the world, rich with scenic vineyards and breathtaking hill towns and villages. Florence is just a short trip to more fascinating destinations including Pisa, Siena, Luca and Livorno. Other Italian hot spots like Rome, Naples, Milan and Venice are all easily reached by direct trains from Florence.