Family Cultural Adventure in Florence

A Day of Discovery

Florence, a city where every stone whispers tales of the past, continues to enchant me. Today, I embarked on a journey that intertwined faith, art, and science, further enriching my understanding of this Renaissance gem. I am eager to share the experiences of today, exploring the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella and diving into the world of Museo Galileo.

Our day began with the promise of Florentine sunshine, a welcome change from the chilly mornings we've had. Hans and Leila were excited, too, ready to soak in more of what this incredible city has to offer. After a quick check to make sure I had my essentials, including my trusty camera and a refillable water bottle, we set off, with Leila chattering about what wonders awaited us. I made a mental note to buy a new phone charger, as mine seems to be on its last legs. It's always something, isn't it?

Our first stop was the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella. Before entering, we paused in the piazza, taking in the harmonious blend of green serpentino marble and the overall design of the facade. The basilica stands proudly, a testament to the Dominican Order's influence in Florence. The square was already bustling with activity, locals going about their day and tourists snapping photos.

Exploring Santa Maria Novella is like stepping back in time, each fresco and stained-glass window telling a story of faith, art, and Florentine history.

Inside, the basilica was breathtaking. The soaring Gothic architecture immediately draws your eye upward. The interior is predominantly Gothic, yet it houses a number of beautiful frescoes. We wandered through the chapels, each one a treasure trove of art. Masaccio's Trinity fresco was particularly striking; its innovative use of perspective creating an illusion of depth that is still captivating centuries later. The Green Cloister, named for the green pigment in Paolo Uccello's frescoes, offered a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle. It was fascinating to learn that the pillars of the nave are closer together at the altar, making the church appear longer than it actually is—a clever architectural trick!

Leila was particularly fascinated by the stained-glass windows in the Tornabuoni Chapel, their vibrant colors casting kaleidoscopic patterns on the stone floor. I found myself drawn to the Strozzi Chapel, admiring Filippo Strozzi's tomb and the surrounding frescoes by Filippino Lippi. Hans, ever the history enthusiast, was engrossed in reading about the basilica's construction, which began in the late 13th century.

After immersing ourselves in the basilica's artistic and spiritual ambiance, we were ready for a morning pick-me-up. We strolled over to Caffè Gilli, a historic café that exudes old-world charm. Located on the Piazza della Repubblica, Gilli has been a Florentine institution since 1733. The cafe was bustling with activity, a mix of locals and tourists all eager to enjoy a taste of Florentine coffee and pastries. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and sweet treats filled the air, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.


Experience timeless elegance at Caffè Gilli in Florence – where every sip and bite tells a story steeped in tradition.
We managed to snag a table outside, which allowed us to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the square. Leila was immediately captivated by the carousel, its colorful horses twirling to the sound of cheerful music. I ordered a cappuccino and a selection of pastries, including a creamy cannoli Siciliani and a slice of torta della nonna. The cappuccino was rich and frothy, the perfect complement to the sweet pastries. Leila devoured the torta della nonna, declaring it the best cake she had ever tasted. Hans opted for a classic espresso and a chocolate pastry, savoring each bite with a contented smile.

As we enjoyed our treats, I couldn't help but reflect on the café's rich history. Caffè Gilli has been a favorite haunt of artists and intellectuals for centuries, and it's easy to see why. The elegant interiors, delicious offerings, and prime location make it a must-visit destination in Florence. It's a bit on the pricier side, but, as they say, you pay for the location and the history.

With our appetites sated and our spirits lifted, we set off to our next destination: the Museo Galileo. This museum, dedicated to the history of science, houses an impressive collection of scientific instruments, including those used by Galileo Galilei himself. As someone who appreciates the intersection of culture and innovation, I was particularly excited about this visit.


Discover the rich history of science at Museo Galileo, a must-visit museum in Florence, showcasing incredible inventions and the legacy of Galileo Galilei.
Upon entering the museum, we were immediately greeted by a fascinating array of scientific instruments. From ancient astrolabes to intricate telescopes, the collection offered a glimpse into the evolution of scientific thought. Leila was particularly intrigued by the interactive exhibits, which allowed her to experiment with various scientific principles. Hans, with his background in software engineering, was fascinated by the precision and ingenuity of the historical instruments.

The highlight of the museum was undoubtedly the exhibits dedicated to Galileo Galilei. Seeing the original telescopes and lenses that Galileo used to make his groundbreaking discoveries was truly awe-inspiring. I was particularly moved by the story of Galileo's struggle with the Church over his heliocentric views. His unwavering commitment to scientific truth, even in the face of opposition, is a testament to the power of human curiosity and intellect.

Leila was fascinated to learn about Galileo's discoveries, particularly his observations of Jupiter's moons. She peppered me with questions about the planets, stars, and the vastness of the universe. It was wonderful to see her curiosity sparked by the wonders of science. I am so glad that Hans and I are able to take her to places like this, broadening her horizons and instilling in her a love for learning.

I have always been of the opinion that there were two professions, or rather two aspects of the same profession, perfectly suited to my temperament: to be a librarian or a museum curator. The first because I like to classify, collect, preserve; the second because I am pathologically interested in every manifestation of the spirit of man, in every form of art and science. - Umberto Eco

After a stimulating afternoon at the Museo Galileo, our stomachs began to rumble, reminding us that it was time for lunch. We decided to try Coquinarius, a charming bistro known for its delicious Mediterranean cuisine and cozy atmosphere. Fortunately, I had made a reservation, as the restaurant was quite popular and the line was already forming outside. The restaurant is located near the Duomo, the cathedral named in honour of Santa Maria del Fiore.


Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Coquinarius in Florence - where tradition meets modern taste in a cozy setting.
The interior of Coquinarius was warm and inviting, with exposed brick walls, rustic wooden tables, and soft lighting. The atmosphere was lively and convivial, with diners chatting and laughing over glasses of wine. We were promptly seated at a cozy table and presented with the menu. After perusing the options, I decided to order the burrata ravioli with pistachio pesto, while Hans opted for the wild boar ragu. Leila, ever the adventurous eater, chose the spaghetti with clams and bottarga.

Our meals arrived promptly and were beautifully presented. The burrata ravioli was creamy and flavorful, the pistachio pesto adding a delightful nutty note. Hans raved about the richness and depth of the wild boar ragu, declaring it one of the best pasta dishes he had ever tasted. Leila thoroughly enjoyed her spaghetti with clams, skillfully twirling the pasta around her fork and savoring each bite.

For dessert, we shared a decadent chocolate cake and a refreshing lemon sorbet. The chocolate cake was rich and moist, the perfect ending to a satisfying meal. The lemon sorbet was tart and tangy, cleansing our palates and leaving us feeling refreshed. The prices were reasonable, and the service was attentive and friendly. Coquinarius is dog friendly, but we didn't bring ours, of course. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a delicious and authentic dining experience in Florence.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to indulge in one last Florentine experience: a visit to Bitter Bar. This speakeasy-style bar is known for its innovative cocktails and retro atmosphere. Tucked away on Via Ghibellina, Bitter Bar is a hidden gem that attracts cocktail enthusiasts from around the world.


Discover Bitter Bar in Florence – where inventive cocktails and a lively atmosphere create an unforgettable night out.
The interior of Bitter Bar was dimly lit and intimate, with plush velvet seating, vintage décor, and a long, gleaming bar. The atmosphere was sophisticated and mysterious, reminiscent of a 1920s-era speakeasy. We settled into a cozy corner and perused the extensive cocktail menu. With over 10 years experience behind the bar, the two owners created every artisan fusion drink on the menu themselves.

I decided to try the Prosecco Lavanda, a delightful concoction that celebrates Italy's love for Prosecco, with a creative infusion of delicate lavender notes, while Hans opted for the Rosmarino Old Fashioned, a timeless classic reimagined with hints of rosemary. Leila, with her parents' permission, ordered a non-alcoholic fruit punch. The cocktails were expertly crafted and beautifully presented. My Prosecco Lavanda was light and refreshing, the lavender adding a subtle floral aroma. Hans raved about the complexity and depth of the Rosmarino Old Fashioned, declaring it one of the best Old Fashioneds he had ever tasted.

As we sipped our drinks, we soaked in the bar's lively atmosphere. The bartenders were skilled and attentive, expertly mixing and shaking cocktails with flair. The music was a mix of jazz and blues, adding to the bar's retro ambiance. Bitter Bar is a must-visit destination for cocktail lovers in Florence.

Our day in Florence was a tapestry woven with threads of art, science, and culinary delights. From the spiritual ambiance of Santa Maria Novella to the scientific wonders of Museo Galileo, and the innovative cocktails of Bitter Bar, Florence has once again captivated my senses and enriched my understanding of this remarkable city.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Piazza della Signoria and Palazzo Vecchio, continuing our exploration of Florence's rich cultural heritage. I am excited to see what new adventures await us in this enchanting city. I think Leila is particularly excited about tomorrow, as she had read about the Fountain of Neptune in Piazza della Signoria and is eager to see it in person.
It is time to rest now and recharge, ready for another day of exploration. Until tomorrow, arrivederci!