Written by: Margaret Gillam
Like those living in any city, the residents of Florence are no strangers to the hustle and bustle of urban life. As the sun awakens, so do motorcycle engines and bicycle bells. Shop doors line the streets and roll open with raspy creaks that echo unforgivingly down each block. In the winter months, the warmth of the sunshine is a rare gift within the city limits, often hidden by the tall stretch of the closely-knit buildings that structure the city. Although Florence’s liveliness is a beautiful and exciting trait, its lack of stillness and consistent flow of people can become overwhelming at times. Finding time to slip away from the core of the city and into the green of its surrounding hills can strengthen a person’s mind, spirit and physical health. Providing a taste of needed tranquility.
Tucked into the Tuscany region, Florence is surrounded by gentle, rolling hills decorated with farms, vineyards, and orchards. The countryside stretches for miles, offering clean air, tender sunshine and the sweet tune of the Italian Sparrow. Even a moment in this landscape can reduce tension and stress. The “Parco della Rimembranza” is a quiet park located just beyond a steep hill that leads to the Piazzale Michelangelo neighborhood, right outside the city walls. The park is heavily garnished with thick cyprus trees, leaving just enough room for the rich evening sun to paint the park’s blanket of lush grass, with thick, golden stripes. Parco della Rimembranza is a hidden gem that deserves to be both protected and appreciated. As we enter the rainy Spring season, it can be a challenge to find a sunny day. During the next, take some time to refresh yourself. Leave the city behind for a moment and pay a visit to Parco della Rimembranza, reflecting on the peace and natural beauty that the outskirts of Florence has to offer.