Yari Sacco is a photographer based in Florence, Italy. Peruse his website, and you’ll see stunning shots of lush vineyards, upscale restaurants, high fashion and interior design.
But in recent weeks, as Italy has stumbled under the weight of crushing pandemic, he has seen a different side of his hometown.
Photos of Florence, Italy under Quarantine
Beloved sights like the Uffizi, the Cathedral of Santa Maria, Ponte Vecchio and Palazzo Vecchio – usually filled with throngs of visitors from around the globe – have fallen silent and empty.
Knowing that this was a historic time in the city’s history, Sacco set out to photograph the empty squares and silent streets of Florence. Commissioned by Malandrino Film, his photographs provide a startling look at the icons of Florence that many travelers know well.
“We want to remember this time in our city,” Sacco says. “Florence is a town based on tourism, but tourism has used her and changed her face. These images are an invitation to reflect on the behaviors that we call normal, and to reflect on the way we want to live.”
Here’s a look at some of Sacco’s photos of Florence, Italy during the pandemic.
Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, commonly known as the Cathedral of Florence, is the main Florentine church. It’s a symbol of Florence, and one of the most famous icons in Italy. It is located in an area of the city that has hosted religious buildings since Roman times.
Via Della Vigna Nuova
Home to some of the city’s top stylists and famous designers, the Via Della Vigna Nuova region is usually bustling with shoppers. The area was once dominated by noble families.
Central Market of Florence (Mercato Centrale)
Located between via dell’Ariento, via Sant’Antonino, via Panicale and Piazza del Mercato Centrale, the Central Market. It dates back to the late 19th century when Florence was the capital of Italy.
Ponte Vecchio
The Ponte Vecchio is one of the most beloved bridges in the world. It dates back to 1177 and is a symbol of Florence. Travelers flocked to the picturesque bridge, which is normally filled with vendors and artists. Ask any traveler to Florence, and they will likely have a photo of themselves on the Ponte Vecchio.
Lungarno Corsini
Lungarno Corsini has always been one of the most elegant promenades in the city. It is lined with stately buildings, from Piazza Goldoni to Palazzo Ricasoli, which was home to the New York Grand Hotel in the 19th century, a favorite with Americans.
Piazza della Signoria
Piazza della Signoria is the most famous square in Florence, Italy. Located in the center of medieval Florence, it was once the heart of Florence’s political life. The square is usually filled with thousands of tourists who come to visit the Uffizi Gallery, the Fountain of Neptune, the Loggia della Signoria and the stunning fourteenth-century Palazzo Vecchio, which was built between 1299 and 1314 to give a seat to the representatives of the government of the city.
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