The Stones of Florence: The Stones Of Florence And Venice Observed (Digital Original) (Kiwi Ser. #375)

By: Mary McCarthy

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Synopsis: A journey through the glorious Italian city&’s scenery, history, and culture, from the New York Times–bestselling author of Venice Observed and The Group. Mary McCarthy&’s classic celebrates the Italian city often looked upon as the provincial sister to the better-dressed, more &“feminine&” Venice. To McCarthy, Florence, or Firenze, is a place of ageless enchantment, from the Duomo to the fortressed palaces. The Renaissance began here; art and architecture flourished. From its roots as a center of medieval trade to its transformation into one of the world&’s wealthiest cities, McCarthy charts Florence&’s rich and turbulent history. She introduces a cast of towering real-life characters. Through her probing writer&’s lens, the poetry of Dante and the magnificent artistry of Raphael and Botticelli come vibrantly alive. Along this illuminating journey, McCarthy offers fascinating bits of trivia: There are no ruins in Florence because the Florentines aren&’t sentimental about their past; America took its name from a Florentine traveler named Amerigo Vespucci. From Michelangelo to the Medicis to the story behind a statue&’s missing head, The Stones of Florence is Mary McCarthy&’s hymn to this unique city. This ebook features an illustrated biography of Mary McCarthy including rare images from the author&’s estate.