Family Cultural Adventure in Florence

Echoes of History and Art in Florence

Today in Florence was a beautiful blend of history, art, and culinary exploration. I always feel a sense of excitement when I know the day will be filled with opportunities to learn and experience new things, especially when I can share these moments with my family. It was a day where we connected with the soul of Florence, wandering through its artistic treasures and savoring its gastronomic delights.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Caffè Gilli. The café, steeped in history dating back to 1733, exudes an old-world charm that's simply captivating. Hans and Leila were particularly fascinated by the elegant interiors and the display of colorful confections. I enjoyed a cappuccino while Hans opted for an espresso, and Leila couldn't resist a *torta della nonna*. Sipping our coffees and savoring the pastries, we watched the city awaken around us, a perfect start to a day of exploration.


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

Next, we visited the Basilica of Santa Croce. As we approached, the sheer size and Gothic architecture of the basilica were breathtaking. Inside, the atmosphere was serene and awe-inspiring. Leila was immediately drawn to the stained glass windows, their vibrant colors casting a kaleidoscope of light across the nave. I was particularly moved by the tombs of Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli. Standing there, surrounded by the final resting places of such influential figures, I felt a profound connection to history. It was a reminder of the incredible contributions these individuals made to art, science, and philosophy. Hans, ever the pragmatist, appreciated the architectural details and the sheer feat of engineering that went into constructing such a magnificent structure.


Discover the Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and the final resting place of Italy's greatest artists and thinkers.

The Basilica of Santa Croce is more than just a church; it's a pantheon of Italian genius, a place where the echoes of history resonate with every step.

Learning about the basilica's history, from its construction in the 13th century to its role as a Franciscan church and its eventual transformation into a national monument, was fascinating. The fact that it houses sixteen chapels, each decorated by wealthy Florentine families, speaks volumes about the city's rich cultural patronage. We spent a good amount of time admiring Giotto's frescoes, their vibrant colors and expressive figures telling stories of faith and humanity. The basilica's resilience, having survived floods, bell tower collapses, and plundering, is a testament to its enduring significance.

After the Basilica of Santa Croce, we made our way to the Bargello National Museum. This museum, housed in a former barracks and prison, is home to an extraordinary collection of Renaissance sculptures. The courtyard itself is a work of art, with its open well and Renaissance architecture. Leila was especially intrigued by Michelangelo's *Bacchus*, a sculpture depicting a drunken and staggering Bacchus accompanied by a mischievous child satyr. I was captivated by Donatello's *David*, a bronze statue that embodies the spirit of the Renaissance. Hans, with his keen eye for detail, appreciated the intricate details of the sculptures and the skill of the artists who created them.


Explore the Bargello National Museum, a treasure trove of Renaissance art in Florence, showcasing masterpieces by Donatello and Michelangelo in a historic setting.

The Bargello's collection of decorative arts, including ivories, majolica, and arms, added another layer of interest to our visit. Learning about the museum's history as a former prison and its transformation into a repository of artistic treasures was quite remarkable. The Bargello truly showcases the artistic genius of the Renaissance, with masterpieces by Donatello, Michelangelo and Della Robbia.

For lunch, we had a reservation at Ora d'Aria, a Michelin-starred restaurant that promised a contemporary take on Tuscan cuisine. The restaurant's elegant ambiance and the view of the kitchen through a large window immediately set the tone for a special meal. The service was impeccable, and the staff was attentive and knowledgeable. We opted for the tasting menu, which featured a series of innovative and beautifully presented dishes. Each course was a work of art, a testament to Chef Marco Stabile's culinary creativity. The flavors were complex and harmonious, and the use of seasonal ingredients was evident in every bite. Leila, surprisingly, enjoyed the lasagna with rabbit ragu, while Hans was impressed by the Tuscan beef. I particularly savored the tiramisu, a classic rendition with an excellent coffee flavor and perfect texture.


Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine at Ora d'Aria, where culinary artistry meets the heart of Florence's vibrant dining scene.

In the evening, as the city lights began to twinkle, we decided to experience Florence's nightlife with a visit to Mad - Souls & Spirits. This bar, known for its creative cocktails and unpretentious atmosphere, was the perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing. The bar was lively and filled with locals and tourists alike. Hans and I enjoyed expertly crafted cocktails, while Leila sipped on a non-alcoholic concoction that the bartender whipped up just for her. The staff was friendly and engaging, making us feel right at home. It was a fun and memorable way to end our day in Florence.


Discover Mad - Souls & Spirits, where innovative cocktails meet a vibrant nightlife in the heart of Florence.

As we walked back to the Orto De Medici Hotel, I reflected on the day's experiences. Florence had once again captivated us with its beauty, history, and culinary delights. The city's artistic treasures, from the Basilica of Santa Croce to the Bargello National Museum, had enriched our minds and souls. The flavors of Florence, from the pastries at Caffè Gilli to the innovative dishes at Ora d'Aria, had tantalized our taste buds. And the vibrant atmosphere of Mad - Souls & Spirits had provided a perfect ending to a day of exploration.


Discover the charm of Florence at Orto De Medici Hotel, where comfort meets convenience near iconic attractions like the Duomo and Medici Chapels.

Tomorrow marks our last day in Florence, and we plan to make the most of it. We'll start with a visit to Piazzale Michelangelo, where we can take in a panoramic view of the city. Then, we'll climb the Campanile di Giotto, another iconic landmark that offers breathtaking views. For lunch, we'll try Burro & Acciughe, a restaurant that I've heard serves delicious and authentic Florentine cuisine. In the afternoon, we'll indulge in some retail therapy with a visit to Florence leather shops, where we hope to find unique souvenirs to take home. And for our final dinner in Florence, we'll dine at Golden View Firenze, a restaurant that promises stunning views of the Ponte Vecchio. I'm already looking forward to another day of adventure and discovery in this beautiful city.

I am so grateful for these days we have together. It feels particularly important, given the state of things back home. Showing Leila the beauty of the world, and sharing these experiences with Hans, makes me feel like I am doing something meaningful. I am, in my own small way, building bridges and fostering understanding. It is something that I will continue to do, wherever our travels take us.