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Piazza della Signoria has been the political center of Florence for centuries. Today, it is a lively spot with many restaurants, bars and ice cream shops. In front of Palazzo Vecchio (The Old Palace) one finds a copy of the famous David by Michelangelo, the Marzocco by Donatello and the Neptune Fountain.

The entrance to the Uffizi Gallery is just off the square. In the area covered by the Loggia dei Lanzi there are numerous statues, including Cellini's bronze Perseus. Next to the Neptune Fountain is an equestrian statue of Grand Duke Cosimo I of the Medici.

In the warmer months, visitors can go on a romantic carriage ride through town, beginning in Piazza della Signoria. At night, locals and visitors alike follow the promenade along Via dei Calzaiuoli, a lively shopping street that connects the square with he Duomo of Florence.

The original statue of Michelangelo's David is located in the museum Galleria dell'Accademia, along with Michelangelo's other important works such as the Four Prisoners. The statue of David used to stand in front of Palazzo Vecchio, but was later moved indoors.

A copy is now displayed in front of the palace. The statue of David portrays the ancient hero who killed the fierce opponent Goliath by using a simple slingshot. Michelangelo sculpted David as he would have looked before the fight, with a slingshot over his left shoulder, standing tall and focused.

The statue was completed around 1504 and put on display. The copy is located outdoors and can be seen 24 hours a day. There is another copy in Piazzale Michelangelo. To see the original statue, you can visit Galleria dell'Accademia.

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