Renaissance Revelations: Exploring Florence with Lena

A Day of Palatial Grandeur and Spiritual Serenity

Today was a deep dive into the Florentine spirit, a blend of artistic magnificence and serene contemplation. From the opulent halls of Pitti Palace to the tranquil gardens of Bardini and the spiritual embrace of Santo Spirito, Florence continued to reveal its many layers. Lena and I set out early, eager to absorb as much as possible, and the city certainly didn't disappoint.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Le Cappelle Medicee Restorante. It’s a charming spot, not too far from our hotel, and the reviews online were solid. We fueled up with some classic Italian breakfast fare. I had a cappuccino and a pastry, while Lena opted for a fruit plate. With the day's itinerary packed, we knew we needed the energy.

First stop: the imposing Pitti Palace. I've read so much about it, but nothing quite prepares you for the sheer scale of the place. It's hard to believe it started as the residence of Luca Pitti, a Florentine banker who wanted to outdo the Medici. He certainly made a statement! The palace eventually became the Medici's primary residence, a symbol of their power. The architecture is striking, a departure from the more delicate designs of other Florentine palaces. Its robust, almost fortress-like facade is truly imposing.

We explored several of the museums within the palace, starting with the Palatine Gallery. The collection is staggering, filled with masterpieces by Raphael, Titian, and Caravaggio. The rooms themselves are works of art, adorned with intricate frescoes and opulent decorations. I found myself particularly drawn to Raphael's 'Madonna della Seggiola,' its circular composition and tender depiction of motherhood captivating. Lena was mesmerized by the Baroque splendor of the Royal Apartments, imagining the lives of the Medici and Habsburg-Lorraine families who once resided here. She was particularly impressed with the craftsmanship and detail of the furniture.

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

After the Pitti Palace, we needed a breath of fresh air, so we headed to the Giardino Bardini.


Explore Giardino Bardini, a stunning garden in Florence, where tranquility meets history and breathtaking views await every visitor.

This garden offered a completely different perspective of Florence. It's a bit of a climb to get there, but the panoramic views are worth every step. The garden itself is a delightful mix of styles, with Baroque staircases, English woodland, and Italianate flowerbeds. It felt like stepping into a secret world, far removed from the bustling city below. Lena was particularly excited to see the wisteria in full bloom. The wisteria pergola was breathtaking, a tunnel of violet and pink blossoms creating a magical atmosphere. We spent a good hour wandering through the garden, soaking in the beauty and enjoying the tranquility. I took some photos, trying to capture the essence of this hidden gem.

Leaving the Giardino Bardini, we made our way to the Basilica di Santo Spirito.


Discover the breathtaking Basilica di Santo Spirito in Florence, a stunning blend of art, history, and spirituality in the heart of Tuscany.

Located in the Oltrarno quarter, this church is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, designed by Filippo Brunelleschi. In contrast to the ornate interiors of some other Florentine churches, Santo Spirito is remarkably simple and elegant. The interior is characterized by its clean lines, harmonious proportions, and the use of Corinthian columns. The creamy white walls and pietra serena stone create a sense of calm and serenity.

We took our time exploring the basilica, admiring the architecture and the various artworks. I was particularly interested in the story of Michelangelo's involvement with the church. As a young man, he was granted permission to study anatomy on corpses from the convent's hospital, and in return, he sculpted a wooden crucifix for the high altar. The crucifix is now located in the octagonal sacristy, and it's a powerful and moving work. Lena appreciated the peaceful atmosphere of the church, a welcome respite from the crowds of tourists. We lit a candle and spent a few moments in quiet contemplation.

For lunch, we stopped at Casa del Vin Santo.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Casa del Vin Santo in Florence - where traditional flavors meet modern culinary excellence.

We shared a tagliere of Tuscan cured meats and cheeses, accompanied by a glass of Vin Santo, of course. It was the perfect way to refuel after a morning of sightseeing. The restaurant had a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, and the staff were friendly and helpful. Lena particularly enjoyed the pappa al pomodoro.

In the late afternoon, with our artistic and spiritual appetites sated, Lena indulged in some retail therapy at Davide Cerasi Leather Boutique.


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

She's been wanting a new leather handbag, and I've heard good things about the quality of Cerasi's work. I waited patiently while she browsed, offering my opinion when asked. She eventually settled on a beautiful, handcrafted leather bag. She was thrilled with her purchase, and I was happy to see her so excited.

Before dinner, we decided to relax with a drink at the Atrium Bar.


Discover the luxurious Atrium Bar in Florence, where exquisite cocktails meet Italian culinary delights in an elegant setting.

This elegant bar, located within the Four Seasons Hotel Firenze, is known for its sophisticated atmosphere and expertly crafted cocktails. We sank into comfortable velvet armchairs and ordered a couple of Negronis, a classic Florentine cocktail. The pianist was playing softly in the background, creating a relaxed and refined ambiance. It was the perfect way to unwind after a long day of exploring.

Dinner was at Osteria dell'Enoteca.


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

This restaurant, tucked away in the Oltrarno neighborhood, is known for its authentic Tuscan cuisine and extensive wine list. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with exposed brick walls and elegant decor. We started with a cauliflower flan, which was absolutely delicious. For our main courses, I ordered the Florentine steak, cooked to perfection and seasoned with just salt and rosemary. Lena opted for the wild boar with polenta, a hearty and flavorful dish. We shared a bottle of Chianti Classico, recommended by the knowledgeable waitstaff. The meal was a true culinary delight, a perfect ending to a perfect day.

As we strolled back to the Orto De Medici Hotel, hand in hand, we reflected on the day's experiences.


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

Florence had once again captivated us with its beauty, its history, and its vibrant culture. The blend of palatial grandeur, serene gardens, and spiritual sanctuaries had left us feeling enriched and inspired. I’m particularly glad we got to experience the Basilica di Santo Spirito, after reading about Brunelleschi's architectural genius, it was fascinating to see it in person.

Tomorrow marks our final day in Florence, and we plan to make the most of it. Our itinerary includes a visit to the House of Dante, the Museo Galileo, and the Palatine Gallery. We're also planning to try out Locale Firenze for a drink and Galeria for some last-minute souvenir shopping. It's hard to believe our Renaissance Revelations adventure is coming to an end. I’m excited to see the House of Dante tomorrow, I am a big fan of his work and his impact on Italian literature is undeniable. I’m also curious about the Museo Galileo, I have always been fascinated by science and technology.

It's been an incredible journey, and I'm already looking forward to our next adventure. But for now, it's time to rest and recharge, ready for one last day of Florentine exploration. Goodnight from Florence!