Stendhal syndrome

A psychosomatic response—tachycardia, vertigo, fainting, confusion and even hallucinations—when the ‘victim’ is exposed to particularly beautiful, or large amounts of, art in a single place—e.g., Florence (Italy), which has a high concentration of classic works; the response can also occur when a person is overwhelmed by breathtaking natural beauty

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Stendhal syndrome

(sten-dal') [Pen name of Marie-Henri Beyle, Fr. writer, 1783–1842]

Panic attacks that occur after viewing great works of art, esp. while traveling.

Synonym: Florence syndrome; hyperkulturemia; tourist syndrome

Medical Dictionary, © 2009 Farlex and Partners