I'm happy that I finally made my way to Italy and visited those fascinating cities. Although I encountered a lot of unpleasantness, and sometimes those Italians made me frustrated, I have to admit that I miss those cities full of history and soul, especially Florence.

Italy is said to be a veritable treasure chest of culture and heritage. A tour to Italy is not complete without a stop at Florence. Long ago we have booked a hotel not far from the train station. What was unexpected was that it was also close to these scenic spots. We weaved our path to the hotel, only to find the surroundings were actually commercial areas with well-known brands and well-decorated restaurants. People were wandering aimlessly around the streets. All I saw made me believe this is a city flourished in tourism.

The next day we were woken up by the wild and beautiful music from the Santa Maria Cathedral. This Gothic style of cathedral is located in Piazza del Duomo, which also includes the Baptistery and Giotto's Campanile. To avoid the crowds and having the courage to face 463 steps, we climbed up into dome for a spectacular view of the city. The whole city view is amazing, but we expected more.

Recommended by tour guidance on the internet, we head towards Piazza Michelangelo thereafter. I had no idea why the square is named after Michelangelo and how magnificent it is. But when we finally got there, we knew here was the right place to be. The square, dedicated to the great Renaissance sculptor Michelangelo, has his masterpiece David standing solemnly. Some vendors made use of his name and were selling various souvenirs, such as pencil of Pinocchio and scenic paintings. The most famous for Piazza Michelangelo is the panoramic view of Florence from this observation point. Having been reproduced on countless postcards ad snapshots over the years, the view encompasses the heart of Florence from Ponte Vecchio, the Duomo to Saint Maria Cathedral, as well as the hills north of the city. In China, people often compare the breadth of mind to the sea. But for me, I would like to have the insight as broad as this view. Looking far, I was wondering how Florence was endowed with so many resplendent culture and art, which add great temperament and modernity to the city. I should have sensed the city somewhere else, but have I??

Amazed by a whole day's treasure hunt, we felt tired, but still excited. It's always better to know that we had more to see tomorrow. The tale of Florence continues.