An Indian in Florence: Maharaja of Kolhapur

Prince Rajaram Chhatrapati

Cascine Park is a beautiful large green oasis in the centre of Firenze/Florence, a relaxing spot (at the far end away from the market) for a stroll, walk or run when a space to slow down is needed. http://www.ciaobellatours.com.au

Around 150 years ago 21 year old Prince Rajaram Chhatrapati had left India with his wives and entourage to visit England.  Whilst there he was advised to visit Firenze on the way home.

Unfortunately he acquired a sudden illness while is was visiting and died soon after.  In keeping with Brahmin traditions he had to be cremated and his ashes had to be scattered where two rivers converge.  There is only one spot where this could happen in Firenze, so the ceremony took place at the convergence of the Arno and Mugone rivers.

The memorial(foto at above) is near the place where his ashes were scattered.

And now it's also the place where a single span bridge of 200metres was built in 1978, now called the Ponte all'Indiano. It has two levels, one for vehicles and the other for walkers.  A little piece of somewhat secret history.

And the shrub? Who knows what it is?

Firenze: relax by the Arno River

When the crowds in the centre of Firenze become too much, take a stroll (or a little ATAF electric orange bus) down to the Arno. Near Ponte S Niccolo is Giardino Antonio, and a litle box of a bar Lungano dei Tempio. It's right on the edge of the garden and the Arno and a cool place to sit if it's a hot day. You can watch the rowers in their kayaks and sculls, up and down the green river in front of you (they can't go too far towards Pisa because of the cement restraining tables). Individual scullers with their relaxed windmill technique, and the occasional novice splashing past. You can buy a glass of wine and a generous serve of foccacio with salami or prosciutto or formaggio for less than $10. Just don't drink the water from the Arno. Or even put your toes in. Molto pericoloso!