In January 1817, Henri Beyle arrived in Florence, captivated by the city's historical grandeur, represented by its architectural marvels like the Santa Maria del Fiore dome. Overwhelmed by emotions tied to famous figures such as Dante and Michelangelo, he felt a mixture of excitement and anxiety. Beyle, having meticulously studied maps, confidently navigated the city to the Basilica di Santa Croce, where he sought its art and history rather than the more renowned Giotto frescoes, indicating a profound personal connection to the sacred space.
Upon approaching the San-Gallo gate, with its unbeautiful Triumphal Arch, I could gladly have embraced the first inhabitants of Florence whom I encountered.
Here, within these walls, the civilisation of mankind was born anew. I found myself grown incapable of rational thought, but rather surrendered to the sweet turbulence of fancy.
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