Ep 4. Florence: Heart of the Renaissance

In Rick Steves' Europe season 7 episode 4, viewers are taken on a journey to Florence, Italy; a city that embodies the heart of the Renaissance. Florence is a city that has long been known for its artistic and architectural wonders, and viewers of this episode are in for a treat as Rick Steves explores some of the city's most iconic landmarks.

As with any of Rick Steves' Europe episodes, viewers are given a deep historical context to the city being explored. In this case, the episode begins by diving into the origins of the Renaissance and the role that Florence played in shaping the movement. The city was home to some of the most influential thinkers, artists, and architects of the time, and Rick Steves does an excellent job of explaining how their work still shapes Florence today.

The episode then goes on to explore some of the most famous landmarks in Florence, including the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and its iconic dome. Viewers are given an up-close look at the stunning architecture of the cathedral and can imagine what it must have been like for Florentines of the time when the cathedral was first built.

Throughout the episode, Rick Steves also dives into the art world of Renaissance Florence. Viewers are given an insider's view of the Uffizi Gallery, one of the most famous art museums in the world. Here, they can see works by Michelangelo, da Vinci, and Botticelli, among many others. Rick Steves has an evident passion for art, and this enthusiasm is infectious - even viewers who might not consider themselves art enthusiasts will likely find themselves engrossed in the works showcased in the episode.

Another standout moment of the episode is the exploration of the Palazzo Vecchio, which served as the political center of Florence during the Renaissance. Here, viewers can imagine what it must have been like to witness discussions that helped shape not only Florence but also Italy as a whole.

One of the strengths of this episode is how it shows Florence as a city that is both modern and old-world at the same time. Throughout the episode, viewers can glimpse people enjoying the city's many cafes and modern attractions, while still being able to experience the historical landmarks that have made Florence famous.

Ultimately, fans of Rick Steves and anyone with an interest in the Renaissance period will not be disappointed by this episode. A master at weaving historical context with lively, interesting, and insightful commentary, Rick Steves brings viewers into a world that is long gone but still inspires lessons for the present. Florence is a city that has played a significant role in shaping our understanding of art, architecture, and the world itself - and in the hands of Rick Steves, viewers are given a guide into the heart of this wonderful place.