Florence in April – Scoppio del Carro

Travel Articles | February 23, 2010

April is one of the best times to visit Florence as you avoid the masses of tourists in July and August whilst enjoying the best of the weather. Although you might get a few cloudy days, April is when the weather really begins to brighten up in Firenze, the capital of Renaissance art.

Another highlight in April is the “Scoppio del Carro” (explosion of the cart) which is related all the way back to the First Crusade. On Easter Sunday, a 30 foot tall antique cart, hauled by a team of white oxen is filled with fireworks and other pyrotechnics. The complex fireworks show lasts about 20 minutes and is meant to guarantee good harvest, stable civic life and good business.

The ceremony is shrouded in religious and symbolism and is still taken seriously by farmers from the Florentine area today.

The Piazza della Signoria is another must see and is a short walk from the Duomo where the “Scoppio del Carro” takes place. The Uffizi Gallery is also close by and is a must stop for any art lover.

However, when in the glorious region of Tuscany it is almost a sin to remain in just one city. Pisa, Lucca and Siena are all within an hour’s drive and with car hire Italy being relatively cheap, particularly prior to the busy tourist season there’s no excuse for not venturing further into one of Italy’s most famous regions.

Siena is a yet another beautiful Italian city that thrives on its history and tradition. The city centre is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is also home to one of the most exciting events in Europe. The Palio di Siena is a traditional horse race run around the Piazza del Campo twice a year (July 2 and August 16). The race itself is in fact incredibly dangerous for both rider and horse but is a source for tremendous pride for the entire city.

As you continue your journey through Tuscany, don’t leave Siena too soon as San Gimignano is another hidden gem in the hills of Tuscany. If you climb to the top of the town’s tower you’ll be witness to some of the most amazing views of the Elsa Valley.

Car rental deals will be best the earlier you book, additionally trains run fairly regularly but should not be relied upon as only source of transport. Avoid the hotter summer, particularly August when the fray of tourists is at its worst, although sacrificing for the Palio di Siena is definitely worth it!

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Florence in April – Scoppio del Carro

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