Renaissance Revelations: Exploring Florence with Lena

Florence's Embrace: A Monday of Discovery

Today was a whirlwind of Florentine treasures, a day where art, history, and the simple pleasures of Italian life intertwined to create lasting memories. Lena and I set out with the eagerness of explorers, ready to immerse ourselves in the city's rich tapestry. From the solemn beauty of the Basilica of Santa Croce to the captivating exhibits at the Opera del Duomo Museum, and the vibrant atmosphere of the Loggia dei Lanzi, Florence truly revealed its magic.



Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Cuculia. The restaurant's reputation for blending tradition with innovation was immediately apparent. I opted for a classic Italian breakfast with a cappuccino and a pastry, while Lena chose a vegan option that was equally delightful. The cozy atmosphere and the friendly staff set the perfect tone for the day ahead. It's amazing how a good meal can fuel the spirit for hours of exploration. We savored every bite, knowing that we needed the energy for the day's adventures. Leaving Cuculia, we felt ready to embrace all that Florence had to offer.




Discover Cuculia in Florence: A delightful fusion of exquisite cuisine and literary treasures awaits you.

Our first stop was the Basilica of Santa Croce. As we approached, the magnificent neo-Gothic facade, adorned with varying shades of colored marble, was a sight to behold. Inside, the austere interior provided a stark contrast, yet it was equally awe-inspiring. The Basilica is, of course, the final resting place of some of Italy's most illustrious figures, and standing before the tombs of Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli was a humbling experience. I felt a deep connection to history, a sense of gratitude for the contributions of these great minds. Lena was particularly moved by the frescoes by Giotto in the chapels to the right of the altar. The vibrant colors and intricate details told stories of faith and artistry, transporting us back to the 14th century. We spent a good amount of time marveling at the architecture and the art, soaking in the solemn atmosphere of this sacred place. The Basilica truly earns its moniker as the Temple of Italian Glories.




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

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

Next on our itinerary was the Opera del Duomo Museum. Although it might sound like a museum dedicated solely to the construction of the Duomo, it is so much more. It houses an unparalleled collection of medieval and Renaissance Florentine sculpture. We were particularly excited to see Michelangelo's La Pietà, a piece he intended for his own tomb but later abandoned. The raw emotion and the unfinished quality of the sculpture were incredibly moving. Lena was captivated by Donatello's Penitent Magdalene, a striking depiction of Mary Magdalene as an old and gaunt woman. The realism of the sculpture was both shocking and thought-provoking. We also marveled at Lorenzo Ghiberti's Gates of Paradise, the gilded bronze doors that Michelangelo himself named so. The intricate details and the sheer artistry of the doors were astounding. The Opera del Duomo Museum provided a comprehensive look at the artistic heritage of Florence, and we left with a deeper appreciation for the city's cultural legacy.




Explore the rich artistry of Florence at the Opera del Duomo Museum, home to stunning sculptures and historical treasures that bring the city's heritage to life.

After immersing ourselves in art and history, it was time for lunch. We headed to Vini e Vecchi Sapori, a small osteria known for its authentic Florentine cuisine. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a warm, family-run atmosphere. I ordered the peposo, a traditional veal stew with black peppercorns, while Lena opted for the duck ragu. Both dishes were incredibly flavorful and satisfying. The service was impeccable, and the prices were reasonable. It was the perfect place to recharge and savor the flavors of Florence. As we ate, we discussed the morning's adventures, sharing our favorite moments and reflecting on the beauty we had witnessed.




Experience the true flavors of Tuscany at Vini e Vecchi Sapori, where authentic Italian cuisine meets warm hospitality in the heart of Florence.

With renewed energy, we made our way to the Loggia dei Lanzi, an open-air sculpture gallery located in the Piazza della Signoria. The Loggia was built in the 14th century to house public ceremonies, but today it serves as a stage for a remarkable collection of Renaissance and classical sculptures. We admired Benvenuto Cellini's Perseus with the Head of Medusa, a dramatic bronze sculpture that depicts the mythical hero holding aloft the severed head of the Gorgon. Lena was particularly drawn to Giambologna's Rape of the Sabine Women, a dynamic marble sculpture that captures the chaos and drama of the ancient Roman legend. The Loggia dei Lanzi was a vibrant and lively space, filled with tourists and locals alike, all admiring the beauty of the sculptures. It was a perfect spot to people-watch and soak in the atmosphere of Florence. The Loggia dei Lanzi, with its impressive sculptures and historical significance, offered a captivating glimpse into Florence's artistic and political past.




Discover the exquisite beauty and rich history of Loggia dei Lanzi, an iconic open-air gallery in Florence showcasing Renaissance masterpieces.

Following our artistic explorations, Lena and I decided to indulge in some retail therapy. Florence is renowned for its leather goods, and we were eager to find a souvenir to remind us of our trip. We ventured into the Oltrarno district, known for its artisan workshops and leather shops. The streets were filled with the aroma of leather, and the shops were bursting with colorful bags, belts, and jackets. We spent hours browsing the shops, examining the quality of the leather and haggling with the vendors. Eventually, I found a beautiful leather belt, and Lena purchased a stylish handbag. We were thrilled with our purchases, knowing that they were not just souvenirs but also pieces of Florentine craftsmanship. It's important to be cautious when buying leather in Florence, as not all shops offer genuine products. Look for items that smell musky and natural, feel supple and soft, and have tight, regular stitching.




Explore the finest Italian leather goods in Florence, where tradition and elegance harmoniously meet.

As the day drew to a close, we sought out a place to unwind and enjoy the Florentine nightlife. We stumbled upon Mad - Souls & Spirits, a trendy bar known for its innovative cocktails and lively atmosphere. The bar was small and cozy, with a dimly lit interior and a friendly staff. I ordered a Negroni, while Lena chose one of the bar's signature cocktails. The drinks were expertly crafted and delicious. The bar was filled with locals and tourists, all enjoying the music and the ambiance. It was a perfect way to end our day in Florence. We sat and chatted, reflecting on the day's adventures and planning our itinerary for tomorrow. Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Pitti Palace, Giardino Bardini, and Basilica di Santo Spirito. I'm particularly excited about the gardens, as I've heard they offer stunning views of the city.




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

Before heading back to our hotel, we enjoyed a delightful dinner at Ristorante Oliviero 1962. The restaurant's reputation for quality and service preceded it, and we were not disappointed. The ambiance was elegant and inviting, and the staff was attentive and knowledgeable. I ordered the filetto di manzo alla Rossini, while Lena chose the ravioli verdi ripieni di patate al cero tagù fiorentino. The dishes were beautifully presented and incredibly flavorful. The meal was a perfect ending to a perfect day. We savored each bite, knowing that we were experiencing the best of Florentine cuisine.




Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine at Ristorante Oliviero 1962 in Florence—where tradition meets modernity in every delicious bite.

As we walked back to the Orto De Medici Hotel, we reflected on the day's experiences. Florence had truly captivated us with its art, history, and culture. From the solemn beauty of the Basilica of Santa Croce to the vibrant atmosphere of Mad - Souls & Spirits, every moment had been a delight. We were grateful for the opportunity to explore this magnificent city and to create memories that would last a lifetime. It's nights like these that make traveling so rewarding, when you feel a deep connection to a place and its people.




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

Tomorrow promises new adventures, and I can't wait to share them with you. Until then, arrivederci from Florence!