Florence. The name is sufficient to bring to mind a city of artists and poets, of culture and art, where splendid monuments interlock with the taste of history and ever living traditions. Atmospheres and images which will accompany those who took part in the 24th edition of the Firenze Marathon. Indeed, running in a frame like the one offered by the city of Florence, among its beauties, its artistic treasures, and monuments has a special appeal, which is unique in this world.

Milan is a metropolis in Northern Italy where both culture and enterprise flourish, but it is also a cosmopolitan city merging different cultures, needs and the very essence of Italian life. The symbol of Milan has always been the Duomo, in the gothic style from Lombardy, and the fascinating piazza with the nearby Galleria Vittorio Emanuele. Today, Milan is an international point of reference for the worlds of fashion, architecture and design.

So how different is it running in the ancient city of Florence as compared to the modern city of Milan which has its own historical monuments and museums? Let’s check out the race reviews of both races, brought to you by fennel (Firenze Marathon) and Ripley (Milano City Marathon) held on 25 Nov 2007 and 2 Dec 2007 respectively.