Day 14 Agenda - July 12, 2014 - Florence, Italy

Florence, Italy  A center of medieval European trade and finance and one of the wealthiest cities of the time Florence is considered the birthplace of the Renaissance, and has been called the Athens of the Middle Ages. A turbulent political history includes periods of rule by the powerful Medici family, and numerous religious and republican revolutions. Today the historic center of Florence attracts millions of tourists each year. Due to Florence's artistic and architectural heritage, it has been ranked by Forbes as one of the most beautiful cities in the world and in 1982 it was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The city also contains numerous museums and art galleries, such as the Uffizi Gallery and the Pitti Palace, amongst others, and still exerts an influence in the fields of art, culture and politics. ACTIVITIES Pay a visit to the Accademia Gallery, which houses Michelangelo's colossal statue, David. Now your guide will take you for a walk through the city of Florence, you'll pass by the Duomo and the bronze doors to the Baptistery, known as the Gate to Paradise. Take some time on your own to take in the flair of the city. Your parents and friends would certainly enjoy receiving a postcard from Florence! One of Italy's most famous products is leather! You will have the opportunity to learn about the production and processing of leather at the Leonardo Leather Works. Become acquainted with the local Tuscan cuisine during a special meeting at an Italian "fattoria" and watch a pizza-making demonstration. Afterwards, put your knowledge into practice and produce your own authentic Tuscan meal! Buon appetito!