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"It's incredible how old everything is, and this type of music really brings the culture back to life," said James Soupley from Ohio.

In the 13th century, the piazza was originally used as a marketplace, as well as a spot for politicians to voice issues to Florentine citizens, and was considered the heart of the city. However, the square that was once used for announcements, celebrations and executions is now one of the largest tourist magnets and entertainment centers of Florence.

Crowds have always amassed in the Piazza della Signoria, and it is no different today.

"It's still the heart of the city today," emphasized Florence native Lorenzo Pacini. "Now, it's just beauty surrounded by beauty."

Several audience members expressed that certain performances, such as a symphony performed by a professional choir and orchestra, add to the historical significance of the piazza.

"I think the music reestablishes how important the piazza still is," said Alison Haber from Los Angeles. "It shows that it's still important to the people."

Although the piazza has heard a variety of music in its time, as well as seen priceless sculptures and works of art, many audience members seemed to express a certain standard to the type of music that would be appropriate for a square built in the 13th century.

"I'd say it definitely depends on the music," said Stephen York from Indonesia. "Rock music would probably take some of the meaning away from it, I think."

Alessandra Ruffini, a native Florentine and soprano for the Teatro's choir, emphasized that music, and especially old music, adds to the significance of the piazza.

"It seems that classical music, and not so much modern music, is the best to play in a square like this," said Ruffini. "It's an absolutely wonderful piazza and should be celebrated in such a great way."

As Pacini explained, the word maggio in the Teatro's name means "lyric," and the Teatro emphasizes performances that contain exquisite lyrics to express stories to the audience. In this way, he added, the piazza serves its job perfectly to provide a historic stage for such historic stories.

"This year has opened up a bit to dance and jazz and some different dramas," Pacini explained. "They have even improved the range of music."

An eager crowd marked the end of the Teatro's festival at the piazza. An hour and a half before the concert, there were about 70 to 100 people flitering in and out, but by show time, there were nearly 3,000.

"It's a good result," Pacini said. "The square will be all full. Just like it used to be."