Family Cultural Adventure in the Heart of Florence

Florentine Echoes: A Sunday Stroll Through Time

Today was a day of diving deep into the heart of Florence, a city that continues to surprise me with its layers of history and artistic treasures. I set out this morning with a sense of anticipation, eager to explore the blend of science, art, and culinary delights that awaited. And, of course, I was looking forward to sharing all of it with Aoife and Liam.

Our Florentine adventure continued with a hearty dose of history and a touch of retail therapy. It was a day that balanced the intellectual with the sensory, leaving me with a deeper appreciation for this remarkable city. As I sit here tonight, reflecting on the day's experiences, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to explore and share these moments with my family.

Our day began, as many good days do, with a visit to Caffè Gilli for breakfast. Located in the Piazza della Repubblica, this historic café, established in 1733, exudes old-world charm. The air was filled with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and warm pastries. I opted for a classic cappuccino and a flaky croissant, while Aoife enjoyed a strong espresso and Liam chose a decadent chocolate pastry. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration. The cafe was busy, but the staff were friendly and efficient. As we savored our breakfast, we watched the city come to life around us, street performers setting up and locals starting their Sunday routines.


Experience timeless elegance at Caffè Gilli in Florence – where every sip and bite tells a story steeped in tradition.

Our first stop was the Museo Galileo, a place I had been particularly excited about. As an antiques dealer, I've always been fascinated by the intersection of science and art. The museum, housed in the Palazzo Castellani, is a treasure trove of scientific instruments dating back to the Medici era. I was immediately captivated by the collection of astrolabes, globes, and early telescopes. Seeing the actual instruments used by Galileo himself was awe-inspiring. Liam, with his youthful curiosity, was particularly engaged by the interactive exhibits that demonstrated the principles of physics and astronomy. Aoife, ever the historian, was fascinated by the museum's collection of maps and charts, tracing the evolution of scientific understanding over the centuries. The museum wasn't overly crowded, which allowed us to take our time and truly appreciate each exhibit.


Explore the fascinating world of science and the legacy of Galileo at Museo Galileo in Florence, a premier science museum with rich collections and interactive exhibits.

The pursuit of knowledge is an endless journey, one that enriches both the mind and the soul.

After immersing ourselves in the world of science, we ventured to the Basilica di San Lorenzo. This church holds a special place in Florentine history, having served as the city's cathedral for three centuries. More significantly, it became the parish church of the Medici family, and their influence is evident throughout. The basilica's architecture, designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, is a masterpiece of the Renaissance. The interior is a harmonious blend of classical proportions and elegant simplicity. We wandered through the chapels, admiring the intricate details and the sense of serenity that pervades the space. The Basilica di San Lorenzo is actually a complex of buildings, including the Laurentian Library and the Medici Chapels.


Explore the Basilica di San Lorenzo in Florence, a magnificent blend of art, history, and Renaissance architecture that captivates every visitor.

One of the most striking features of the Basilica di San Lorenzo is the Old Sacristy, designed by Brunelleschi as a Medici burial ground. The cupola of the scarsella is painted with an astronomical image that blends science and art. The Basilica is filled with paintings and frescoes. We saw work by artists from the Florentine workshop and the Northern European School, as well as pieces by Desiderio da Settignano and Domenico Ghirlandaio. The Medici family's patronage is woven into the fabric of the basilica, a testament to their power and influence.

Next, we explored the Cappelle Medicee, the Medici Chapels, a grand mausoleum complex that showcases the family's ambition and artistic taste. The opulent Chapel of the Princes, with its massive dome and lavish marble decorations, is a testament to the Medici's power and wealth. The New Sacristy, designed by Michelangelo, is a more intimate space, featuring his famous sculptures of Day, Night, Dawn, and Dusk. These allegorical figures are powerful expressions of human emotion and the passage of time. It's a somber and reflective space, a reminder of the family's mortality amidst all their grandeur. The Medici Chapels provide a fascinating glimpse into the lives and legacies of this influential family. Aoife was particularly moved by the artistic achievement that the chapels represent, while Liam was intrigued by the stories of the Medici rulers and their impact on Florentine history.


Explore the Cappelle Medicee in Florence, a historical masterpiece showcasing Michelangelo's art and the grandeur of the Medici family.

For lunch, we sought out Il Santo Bevitore, a restaurant recommended for its authentic Florentine cuisine and lively atmosphere. Tucked away on Via Santo Spirito, this trattoria was buzzing with locals and tourists alike. We started with a pear and pecorino salad, a refreshing combination of sweet and savory. For our main courses, I opted for the porcini risotto, Aoife chose the pigeon, and Liam, ever adventurous, tried the veal. Each dish was expertly prepared and bursting with flavor. The service was attentive and friendly, adding to the overall enjoyable experience. It was the perfect place to refuel after a morning of sightseeing. The comfortable dining rooms are lively and full of happy diners enjoying the excellent cuisine. The atmosphere is casual and warm with just the right amount of buzz.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Il Santo Bevitore in Florence - where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.

After lunch, I couldn't resist a visit to the Davide Cerasi Leather Boutique. As an antiques dealer, I have a keen eye for craftsmanship and quality materials. This boutique, located near the Ponte Vecchio, is known for its fine Italian leather jackets and accessories. I spent some time browsing the selection, admiring the supple leather and the attention to detail. While I didn't make a purchase today, I was impressed by the quality and the classic styling of the pieces. It's definitely a place I'll keep in mind for future acquisitions. The shop assistant told me the leather factory is the leading manufacturer of fine Italian men and women's leather jackets.


Experience the artistry of Italian leather at Davide Cerasi Leather Boutique, a must-visit destination for luxury shoppers in Florence.

For dinner, we indulged in a truly special experience at Enoteca Pinchiorri, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant renowned for its exquisite cuisine and extensive wine cellar. Located in a Renaissance palace, the restaurant exudes elegance and sophistication. We opted for the tasting menu, a culinary journey that showcased the chef's creativity and skill. Each course was a work of art, both visually stunning and incredibly delicious. The wine pairings were expertly chosen, enhancing the flavors of each dish. The service was impeccable, attentive without being intrusive. It was an unforgettable dining experience, a celebration of Florentine gastronomy at its finest. It was an international experience, but very Italian for its cooking. The tables are extremely elegant and highly refined, the courses are brought to the table at just the right pace and there is a choice of two types of menu: the tradition menu, well presented with just the right refinement, or the more extensive Italian cuisine, modern and creative.


Experience exquisite fine dining at Enoteca Pinchiorri in Florence—where Italian tradition meets modern culinary artistry.

As today is Sunday, January 19, 2025, there was a Serie A match at Stadio Artemio Franchi. However, with our busy itinerary, we were unable to attend the match. Florence is very festive during the holidays, which go until early January, and is a great time to explore Florence. I was also aware that the Green Line Festival was still running, but we didn't have time to visit it.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Florence Academy of Fine Arts, Palazzo Pitti, and the Basilica di Santo Spirito. I am particularly looking forward to seeing Michelangelo's David at the Accademia and exploring the vast art collections at Palazzo Pitti. I also plan to visit Mad - Souls & Spirits, a bar, for an evening drink.

Florence is a city that rewards exploration, and today was a testament to that. From the scientific wonders of Galileo to the artistic masterpieces of the Renaissance, there is always something new to discover. And with each passing day, I find myself falling deeper in love with this enchanting city.