Origin: Stendhal's experience in Florence

What is Stendhal syndrome?

Stendhal’s syndrome is a rare and unusual psychological disorder. It’s a psychosomatic condition whereby certain people suffer from a rapid heartbeat, fainting or even hallucinations, when exposed to objects or works of art of great beauty. The condition takes its name from a famous French writer who experienced a similar state of intense emotion upon visiting Rome, Naples and Florence. Stendhal wrote about his visit to Florence’s Santa Croce Basilica in a book entitled Naples and Florence: A journey from Milan to Reggio.

If I see something amazingly beautiful, I could just faint at any moment? Does it only happen in Florence?  ⁠In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions !⁠

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A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance.

First Broadcast: 10/7/2022

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