Academics, scholars, deans and journalists from over 50 universities from all over the world met this past May 22nd and 23rd in Florence for "Spaces of war, war of spaces": two days of debate and discussions with top experts in political science, journalism and strategic communication to analyze the relationship between war and information. The conference, organized by Elon University in collaboration with Accademia Europea di Firenze, Italian excellence in the formative training of international students, took place between the AEF Headquarters at Palazzo Niccolini and the Cinema Teatro La Compagnia.
Just a few steps from our school, in Via Ricasoli, lies the Galleria dell'Accademia, one of the most visited museums in the world. Its corridors are home to seven sculptures by the brilliant Michelangelo, including the famous David, but perhaps not everyone knows that inside is an incredible collection of musical instruments. In fact, since 2001 the Gallery houses, in the area once dedicated to the monastery of San Niccolò a Cafaggio, the Museum of Musical Instruments, with an exhibition of about fifty pieces from the collections of the Grand Dukes of Tuscany, Medici and Lorraine.
Among the many peculiarities that distinguish it in the world, Florence is undoubtedly the capital of craftsmanship: in the city streets it is still possible today to admire the great tradition of the shops, handed down from master to master. Authentic pieces of art that catch the eye for their uniqueness and the skill with which they are made.
Florence is one of the international capitals of culture and art: known throughout the world as the "cradle of the Renaissance", it encloses in its’ streets, its’ squares, its’ Lungarni and within its historic buildings, an indescribable beauty. However, don’t make the mistake of writing it off amongst the simple cities of art: extraordinary places, but definitely anchored to the past. It would be a cliché. In recent years, in fact, the Tuscan capital is experiencing a period of great cultural and creative ferment, a sort of "contemporary Renaissance" through which it can revisit tradition, fusing it with the avant-garde and overturning any paradigms.
In spring, Florence lights up with an even more magical light, which makes it shine in all its beauty. A must at this time of year is, undoubtedly, Piazzale Michelangelo, able to give those who visit a breathtaking panoramic view. Not too far away, on one of the highest points of the city, lies another little gem that today will inaugurate the year of celebrations for its millennial: the Basilica of San Miniato al Monte.