Family Adventure in Florence: Exploring Renaissance Wonders

A Morning with Giants

Today, Florence truly unveiled its heart. It wasn't just about seeing famous landmarks; it was about feeling the pulse of this Renaissance city, a city that has inspired me since my days back in Ouro Preto, poring over architectural books. Experiencing it with Isabela and Mateus made it all the more special.

Our day began, as all good days in Italy should, with breakfast. We ventured to Cantinetta delle Terme, a delightful spot that came highly recommended. The reviews were spot on; it was intimate, welcoming, and the food was fantastic. Isabela opted for a classic cappuccino and a pastry, while Mateus, ever the adventurous one, chose a chocolate-filled croissant. I decided on a simple espresso to prepare myself for the day ahead. It was the perfect way to start our exploration of Florence's architectural wonders.


Discover authentic Tuscan cuisine at Cantinetta delle Terme, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor in Florence.
The crisp January air nipped at our cheeks as we made our way towards the Duomo. Florence in January is certainly cooler, with temperatures hovering around 7°C, but the sky, though often cloudy, held a certain charm. The festive lights, still lingering from the New Year, added a touch of magic to the city. As we approached Piazza del Duomo, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, or simply the Duomo, rose before us in all its glory. Even having seen countless pictures, nothing prepares you for the sheer scale and intricate detail of this masterpiece of Gothic architecture.


Explore the iconic Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and a must-see attraction in Florence, Italy.
I found myself, as a historical building restoration consultant, immediately drawn to the colored marble panels – the white from Carrara, the green from Prato, and the pink, all telling a story of Florentine artistry and craftsmanship. The Duomo's construction began in the late 13th century, and it was expanded by Arnolfo di Cambio. The church was finished around 1367, and completely covered in colored marbles. I shared with Isabela and Mateus how the exterior is covered in white, red, and green marble with geometric figures and stylized flowers. The sides are adorned with four elegant mullioned windows, eight circular windows, and four monumental portals richly adorned with sculptures. It's a testament to the enduring power of human vision and skill. It made me think about my work back in Kingston, and how preserving these historical structures is so important.

To stand before the Duomo is to stand before a testament to human ambition, artistry, and faith.

We stepped inside, and the vastness of the interior was breathtaking. The light filtering through the stained-glass windows cast a kaleidoscope of colors across the marble floor. I pointed out the details to Mateus, explaining the significance of the artwork and the history embedded in every stone. I could see his eyes widening with wonder, a feeling I remember so vividly from my own childhood visits to the historical churches in Ouro Preto.

Next on our list was Giotto's Bell Tower, or Campanile. Giotto's Campanile is one of the symbols of Florence and the Italian Renaissance. The tower stands adjacent to the Basilica of Santa Maria del Fiore and the Baptistry of St. John. As we stood at its base, I recounted the story of its construction, begun by Giotto in 1334, and completed by Andrea Pisano and Francesco Talenti after his death. The slender structure is square in plan and is one of the showpieces of Florentine Gothic architecture. The exterior is clad in white, red, and green marble. I explained to Mateus how Talenti did not build the spire designed by Giotto, and lowered the designed height of 122 metres (400 ft) to 84.7 metres (277.9 ft).


Explore the breathtaking views and architectural brilliance of Giotto's Bell Tower, a must-see landmark in the heart of Florence's historic center.
The tower, like the Duomo, is a masterpiece of Florentine Gothic architecture. The climb to the top was invigorating, and the panoramic views of Florence were simply stunning. From that vantage point, we could see the entire city spread out before us, a tapestry of terracotta rooftops and winding streets. I pointed out the Uffizi Gallery and Palazzo Vecchio, our destinations for tomorrow, sparking Mateus's excitement for the art and history that awaited us.

Lunch and Ancient Echoes

After descending from the bell tower, our stomachs were rumbling, so we sought out Vini e Vecchi Sapori for lunch. This restaurant came highly recommended for its authentic Tuscan cuisine, and it did not disappoint. As we stepped inside, we were immediately enveloped in a warm and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant buzzed with the chatter of locals and tourists alike, all eager to savor the traditional flavors of Tuscany. The staff was friendly and welcoming, and we were quickly seated at a cozy table.


Experience the true flavors of Tuscany at Vini e Vecchi Sapori, where authentic Italian cuisine meets warm hospitality in the heart of Florence.
We started with the classic prosciutto and mozzarella combo. The ham was hand cut into thick slices, and the mozzarella was creamy and fresh. For the main course, Isabela chose the ribollita, a hearty bread and vegetable soup that is a Tuscan staple. Mateus opted for the pappa al pomodoro, a thick tomato and bread soup, while I decided on the spaghetti with bacon, olive, and cream. It was a symphony of flavors that perfectly captured the essence of Tuscan cooking. The food was comforting and satisfying, and it was clear that the ingredients were fresh and locally sourced. It reminded me of the simple, yet flavorful dishes my grandmother used to make back in Brazil. The lively serving staff made the experience even more special, their passion for their work evident in every interaction.

Our final stop of the day was the Baptistery of St. John, standing in front of the Duomo. The Baptistery is one of the oldest buildings in Florence, with its origins dating back to the 4th or 5th century AD. The Baptistery of Florence was consecrated in 1059 and named after St. John the Baptist, the patron saint of Florence. Its octagonal shape and the presence of the beautiful ancient marble columns arranged along the internal walls made people believe for centuries that it was an ancient Roman temple with a central plan later converted into a church. I explained to Mateus that the building was the cathedral of Florence from 1059 to 1128. The architecture of the Baptistery is amazing, and its outer cladding is made of white Carrara marble and green Prato marble, which create three horizontal bands decorated with geometric panels and round arches.


Discover the exquisite beauty and rich history of the Baptistery of St. John, a must-visit landmark in Florence showcasing stunning Romanesque architecture.
The bronze doors, especially Ghiberti's Gates of Paradise, were a sight to behold. The detail and artistry were simply astounding. I shared with Mateus the story of the competition to design the doors, and how Ghiberti's masterpiece changed the course of Renaissance art. It was a powerful reminder of the innovative spirit that defined Florence during that era. Inside, the mosaics covering the dome were breathtaking. The intricate patterns and vibrant colors told stories from the Bible, creating a truly awe-inspiring atmosphere.

An Evening Toast

As the day drew to a close, we decided to unwind at Antico Caffè del Moro - Art Bar Firenze, a charming spot known for its creative cocktails. The reviews highlighted its fanciful decor and tranquil atmosphere, and we were not disappointed. Isabela and I savored expertly crafted drinks, while Mateus enjoyed a refreshing non-alcoholic beverage. The atmosphere was relaxed and convivial, a perfect way to reflect on the day's adventures. The staff was friendly and attentive, adding to the overall positive experience. As we sipped our drinks, we reminisced about the incredible sights we had seen and the delicious food we had tasted. It was a day filled with history, art, and culture, a day that brought us closer as a family.


Experience the vibrant ambiance and exquisite drinks at Antico Caffè del Moro, Florence's charming art bar that celebrates local culture.
For dinner, we decided to treat ourselves to a special meal at Il Palagio, the Michelin-starred restaurant at the Four Seasons Hotel. The reviews raved about the impeccable service, refined ambiance, and exceptional cuisine. As we stepped into the elegant dining room, we were immediately greeted by the warm and attentive staff. The restaurant exuded an air of sophistication and charm, with its soft lighting, elegant décor, and impeccable table settings.


Experience unparalleled fine dining at Il Palagio in Florence, where traditional Italian cuisine meets modern culinary excellence.
We opted for the tasting menu, a culinary journey that showcased the best of Tuscan cuisine. Each course was a work of art, both visually stunning and incredibly delicious. The sommelier helped us choose the perfect wine pairings, enhancing the flavors of each dish. From the delicate seafood appetizers to the rich and flavorful meat courses, every bite was a delight. The presentation was impeccable, and the service was flawless. It was an unforgettable dining experience that truly exceeded our expectations. The ambiance of the holiday decor made the restaurant feel extra romantic and cozy. Andrea and his team made the entire meal an elegant, memorable, and tasty experience.

As we walked back to our hotel, Ponte Vecchio Suites & Spa, under the starlit sky, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this incredible day. Florence had truly captivated us, and I knew that the memories we were creating would last a lifetime. Tomorrow, we delve deeper into the art world with visits to the Uffizi Gallery and Palazzo Vecchio. I can't wait to see what other treasures Florence has in store for us.


Experience the charm of Florence at Ponte Vecchio Suites & Spa, offering luxurious accommodations, exceptional dining, and wellness services in the heart of the city.