Exploring the Renaissance: A Journey to Florence

Florence's Skyline Beckons

Today was nothing short of breathtaking. Olivia and I dove headfirst into the heart of Florence, ready to be swept away by its artistic and architectural grandeur. It’s funny, you know, how some cities just grab you from the moment you arrive. Florence has that kind of pull, a magnetic force that draws you into its rich tapestry of history and beauty. As a brewery tour guide back in Kelowna, I'm used to sharing stories and showing off craftsmanship, but today, I was the student, eager to soak in the masterpieces around every corner.


Our day began, as all good days should, with a hearty breakfast. We ventured over to Pasticceria Nencioni, a delightful little spot I'd read about, and it did not disappoint. The pastries were heavenly, the coffee strong, and the atmosphere was buzzing with locals starting their day. Olivia went for a classic croissant, while I opted for something a bit more adventurous – a local pastry filled with ricotta and candied fruit. It was the perfect fuel for a day of exploring. I even managed to practice my Italian with the barista, a skill I'm determined to improve during this trip.

With our appetites satisfied, we set off towards the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, or the Duomo, as it's affectionately known. Even from a distance, the Duomo is a sight to behold. Its magnificent dome, a feat of engineering genius by Brunelleschi, dominates the skyline, a testament to the ambition and ingenuity of the Renaissance. As we got closer, the intricate details of the facade came into focus – the pink, white, and green marble, the sculptures, the stained-glass windows, each telling a story of faith and artistry. It was hard to believe that construction began way back in 1296! To think of the generations of artisans who poured their hearts and souls into this masterpiece is truly humbling.


Discover the breathtaking beauty and history of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence, a true gem of Gothic architecture.

We decided to climb Giotto's Bell Tower first, a wise choice as it turned out. The 414 steps were a bit of a challenge, I won't lie, especially after all those pastries, but the panoramic view from the top was more than worth the effort. From that vantage point, Florence unfolded beneath us, a sea of red-tiled roofs, winding streets, and iconic landmarks. Olivia, ever the librarian, was in her element, pointing out various historical sites and sharing fascinating tidbits of information. I, on the other hand, was content to simply soak in the beauty of it all, snapping photos and marveling at the sheer scale of the Duomo complex.


Discover the breathtaking Campanile di Giotto in Florence, a Gothic masterpiece offering stunning views and rich artistic history, a must-see for every traveler.

The climb down was much easier, and we found ourselves back in the bustling Piazza del Duomo, surrounded by a throng of tourists, all craning their necks to admire the cathedral. We decided to join the queue to enter the Duomo itself, and while the line was long, it moved surprisingly quickly. Stepping inside, I was immediately struck by the contrast between the ornate exterior and the austere interior. The vast nave, soaring arches, and stained-glass windows created a sense of awe and reverence, a reminder of the Duomo's primary purpose as a place of worship. I was particularly impressed by the clock designed in 1443 by Paolo Uccello, still working! And Vasari's frescoes of the Last Judgement are impressive, even though they were mostly painted by his less talented student Federico Zuccari.

After the Duomo, we strolled over to Cantinetta delle Terme for lunch, a charming little restaurant Olivia had discovered in her pre-trip research. It was tucked away on a quiet side street, a welcome respite from the crowds. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, the staff friendly, and the food absolutely divine. Olivia ordered the pasta with raw shrimp and truffle, while I opted for the seafood stew, a medley of fresh catches simmered in a rich tomato broth. Both dishes were bursting with flavor, a testament to the quality of the ingredients and the skill of the chef. We savored every bite, washing it down with a crisp local white wine. It was the perfect midday indulgence.


Discover authentic Tuscan cuisine at Cantinetta delle Terme, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor in Florence.

As I wandered through these ancient streets, I realized that Florence isn't just a city; it's a living, breathing museum, a testament to the enduring power of human creativity and innovation.

Our afternoon was dedicated to the Basilica of Santa Croce, another architectural gem that holds a special place in Florence's history. This time, we took our time wandering through the leather shops, and I ended up buying a leather belt at Davide Cerasi Leather Boutique. Santa Croce is the final resting place of some of Italy's most illustrious figures, including Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli. As we walked through the hallowed halls, Olivia and I paid our respects to these giants of art, science, and politics, marveling at the elaborate tombs and monuments that adorned the basilica. Santa Croce is more than just a church; it's a pantheon of Italian genius, a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage. The Basilica itself was constructed between 1294 and 1385, based on a design by Arnolfo di Cambio. It's amazing to see the blend of Gothic, Renaissance and Neo-Gothic styles.


Explore the breathtaking Basilica of Santa Croce, a Gothic masterpiece in Florence, home to great thinkers and stunning Renaissance art.

One of the most striking things about Santa Croce is the sheer number of tombs and memorials it houses. It's like a who's who of Italian history, with each monument more elaborate than the last. We spent a good hour simply wandering around, reading the inscriptions and admiring the artistry of the sculptures. It was a powerful reminder of the individuals who shaped Florence and Italy into what they are today.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves at Osteria dell'Enoteca for dinner, a traditional Tuscan restaurant known for its hearty cuisine and extensive wine list. We started with the crostini toscani, a selection of toasted bread topped with various spreads, including chicken liver pate and white bean dip. For our main courses, Olivia ordered the Florentine steak, while I opted for the wild boar ragu, a rich and flavorful pasta dish that was the perfect comfort food after a long day of exploring. I was very tempted by the Bistecca all Fiorentina, as dell'Enoteca is known for their Florentine steak and has received wonderful reviews. Of course, we couldn't resist the tiramisu for dessert, a classic Italian treat that was the perfect ending to our culinary adventure.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at Osteria dell'Enoteca in Florence, where exquisite steaks and fine wines await every discerning palate.

As we walked back to our apartment, hand in hand, under the starlit sky, Olivia and I reflected on the day's adventures. We had seen so much, learned so much, and experienced so much, all within the span of a few hours. Florence had truly cast its spell on us, and we were already looking forward to tomorrow's explorations. Tomorrow, we're planning to visit the Boboli Gardens, the Pitti Palace, and the Palatine Gallery. I'm particularly excited about the Boboli Gardens; I've heard they're a true oasis of tranquility in the heart of the city.

Back at Kairos by Florence Art Apartments, I decided to jot down some notes while the day was still fresh in my mind. As much as I love sharing my passion for craft beer with visitors in Kelowna, there's something truly special about immersing myself in a city like Florence, a place where art, history, and culture converge in such a profound way. I feel incredibly grateful for this opportunity to explore this beautiful city with my amazing wife, Olivia. It's moments like these that make life truly worth living.


Experience the heart of Florence at Kairos by Florence Art Apartments, your home away from home, with easy access to iconic landmarks and modern amenities.

And now, as the clock strikes midnight, it's time to bid you goodnight from Florence. Stay tuned for more tales from our Florentine adventure!