Shopping is a temptation not be waived by anyone coming to Florence: it is an irresistible attraction that goes beyond artistic beauties and vivid descriptions; a commercial vocation that is part of the very tradition of this city ang which now, along with tourism, constitutes a dual concept of great importance. A clear example is the Ponte Vecchio, the physiognomy of which – as a bridge-market – makes it unique in the world. But apart from the Ponte Vecchio, the attention of tourists is attracted above all by the jewellery, clothing, leather, and shoe shops, the antique dealers and the art galleries. These are activities behind which is concealed a centuries-old tradition, but one which has succeeded in meeting halfway a progressive transformation which changing times and tastes impose: they have therefore become modern commercial enterprises without, however, losing their original character, in an equilibrium of modernity and tradition. This means that tourists often cannot resist the temptation to have themselves photographed in front of the most beautiful shop windows, under the signs of greatest prestige. Change, in order to remain always the same: this is the secret of Florence.
Daniela Catellacci from Tuscany Villas