Florence without secrets: Square of Saint Cross

Piazza Santa Croce in English the Square of Saint Cross is one of the main squares in Florence. In my opinion there is a special atmosphere espcially at the night because around this square there are a lot of small canteens and bars where you can drink a good wine and eat a typical food of Tuscany. It is close to the Piazza della Signoria and the National Library. The name of this square comes from the name of Basilica Santa Croce (Basilica of Saint Cross) that overlooks the square.

The important thing is that this basilica is the biggest Franciscan church in the world. The most beautiful characteristic are the sixteen chapels most of the decorated by Giotto and his students. The Basilica of Saint Cross is a burial place of many important Italians like Michelangelo, Niccolò Machiavelli and Galileo Galilei.

Another interesting characteristic of this square is a marble statue made by Enrico Pazzi and it was dedicated to Dante. Very beautiful is also the fountain of 19^th century whoch you can find in the front of the Palazzo Cocchi-Serristori whoch is situated on the opposite side to the Basilica.

This square is also crucial for the most important events in Florence. Every June Piazza Santa Croce is prepared for the annual Calcio Storico/Fiorentino (historic football). That event is based on games between four districts in Florence. The game is very violent because boxing and wrestling is allowed and there are also present minor injuries.
Every December are organized Christmas markets from Germany. It very nice place where you can delicious food and find good ideas for Christmas gifts. The funniest thing is that every years there is present the stand from Poland with polish food and beer. There is also an ice ring which is the biggest entertainment for kids.