A Solo Journey Through Florence's Historical Tapestry

Ascending to New Heights in Florence

Today was a day of soaring ambitions, both literally and figuratively. I immersed myself in the heart of Florence, exploring its iconic landmarks and indulging in its celebrated culinary scene. It was a day of architectural marvels, artistic treasures, and gastronomic delights – a true feast for the senses. As a restoration technician, I am always eager to explore historical architectural wonders and I wasn't disappointed.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Caffè Gilli, a Florentine institution that has been serving patrons since 1733. The aroma of freshly baked pastries and the rich scent of coffee filled the air, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Sipping my cappuccino and savoring a delicate pastry, I felt ready to tackle the day's adventures. It was a perfect way to start a day dedicated to exploring the historical and artistic heart of Florence. The cafe was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to start their day with a taste of Florentine tradition. It's amazing to think that this cafe has been a meeting place for artists and writers for centuries.


Experience timeless elegance at Caffè Gilli in Florence – where every sip and bite tells a story steeped in tradition.
Fueled by caffeine and anticipation, I made my way to the Piazza del Duomo, the epicenter of Florence's religious and artistic heritage. The sheer scale of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, also known as the Duomo, was breathtaking. Its intricate façade, adorned with polychrome marble panels in shades of green and pink, was a testament to the city's artistic prowess. The Duomo replaced the older church of San Reparata, and its construction began in 1296. The exterior of the Duomo is notable for the geometric patterning of its revetment made from encrusted marble. It mimics the Tuscan Romanesque style of the Baptistery. I spent a good amount of time simply admiring the exterior, taking in the details and imagining the countless artisans who contributed to its creation. As a restoration technician, I couldn't help but appreciate the craftsmanship and the dedication that went into preserving this magnificent structure for generations to come.


Discover the breathtaking beauty and history of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence, a true gem of Gothic architecture.
Next on my list was Giotto's Bell Tower, or Campanile di Giotto, which stands proudly next to the Duomo. The bell tower reaches up high into the sky, and I was determined to climb the 414 steps to the rooftop terrace. The climb was challenging, but the views from the top were more than worth the effort. As I ascended, I paused at each of the three levels, catching my breath and admiring the changing perspectives of the city. From the summit, Florence unfolded before me in all its glory – a tapestry of red-tiled roofs, winding streets, and rolling hills in the distance. I could see the Duomo's dome from a unique angle, and the Baptistery of St. John stood out with its octagonal shape and intricate bronze doors. It was a truly unforgettable experience, offering a panoramic vista of Florence's artistic and architectural treasures. The climb is not recommended for people with a heart condition or suffering from dizziness and claustrophobia. The exterior is entirely clad in white, red and green marble, worked in geometric motifs and stylised flowers. I took my time at the top, soaking in the beauty and capturing as many photos as possible.


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

Florence is a feast for the senses, a city where every corner reveals a masterpiece and every meal is a celebration of flavor.

After descending from Giotto's Bell Tower, I ventured towards the Baptistery of St. John, a religious building that has been at the heart of Florence's civic and artistic life for centuries. The octagonal structure stands between the Duomo and the Archbishop's Palace, its exterior adorned with white and green marble. Inside, I was mesmerized by the mosaic decoration that covers the entire vault, depicting scenes from the Bible and the lives of saints. The Baptistery is also famous for its three sets of bronze doors, each adorned with relief sculptures by renowned artists such as Andrea Pisano and Lorenzo Ghiberti. Michelangelo famously said that Ghiberti's east doors were so beautiful that they might fittingly stand at the gates of Paradise. As I gazed at these artistic masterpieces, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and reverence for the artists who created them. The Baptistery is a true testament to Florence's rich artistic and religious heritage. The Baptistery of Florence was consecrated in 1059 and was named after St. John the Baptist, the patron saint of Florence.


Discover the breathtaking Baptistery of St. John in Florence, where history, art, and architectural beauty converge in a stunning Renaissance masterpiece.
With my appetite calling, I made my way to Ristorante Borgo San Jacopo for lunch, a Michelin-starred restaurant that boasts an elegant and exclusive style. Housed within the Hotel Lungarno, this restaurant offers a unique vantage point of Ponte Vecchio. I savored each bite of my meal, appreciating the chef's careful selection of Italian ingredients and the refined presentation of the dishes. The sommelier's wine selection was equally impressive, featuring a thousand different labels from renowned estates and small producers alike. The atmosphere was romantic and intimate, making it a perfect setting for a memorable dining experience. The service was impeccable, and I felt pampered and well-cared for throughout my meal. The restaurant's location near the Arno River added to the overall ambiance, creating a truly special and unforgettable culinary experience.


Discover the epitome of fine dining in Florence at Ristorante Borgo San Jacopo, where traditional Italian cuisine meets modern elegance.
In the afternoon, I indulged in a bit of retail therapy at the Davide Cerasi Leather Boutique, a local shop known for its high-quality leather goods. As someone who appreciates craftsmanship and attention to detail, I was impressed by the selection of bags, wallets, and jackets on display. I ended up purchasing a beautiful leather belt, a perfect souvenir to remind me of my time in Florence. The shop owner was friendly and knowledgeable, sharing stories about the local leather industry and the traditions that have been passed down through generations. It was a pleasure to support a local business and to acquire a unique and well-crafted item. I'm sure Sophie will love the belt when I get back to Montreal.


Experience the artistry of Italian leather at Davide Cerasi Leather Boutique, a must-visit destination for luxury shoppers in Florence.
As evening approached, I sought out Trattoria Sostanza for dinner, a traditional eatery that has been serving Florentine cuisine for over 150 years. The restaurant is small and noisy, with menus scrawled on pieces of paper and walls covered in faded photographs. But what it lacks in ambiance, it more than makes up for in flavor. I ordered their famous butter chicken, a simple yet decadent dish that consists of two chicken breasts cooked in a generous amount of butter until golden brown. The flavors were rich and complex, and the chicken was cooked to perfection. It was a truly unforgettable culinary experience, and I understood why this trattoria has been a Florentine favorite for so long. It's the kind of place where the clanks of old pottery, and the metallic clangs of heavy cutlery provide the ear-piercing soundtrack of “authentic” Italian trattoria dining. The resulting flavours are rich and complex, the skin baked at high heat, steaming the thick flesh within and finished with a generous touch of salt. The wine list, though concise, offers fine Italian labels, with the house wine being a popular choice among diners seeking the quintessential Italian experience. I highly recommend making a reservation, as the restaurant is small and fills up quickly. This charismatic trattoria has been a Florentine favourite for more than 150 years.


Discover the authentic taste of Italy at Trattoria Sostanza in Florence – home to delicious steaks and classic Tuscan dishes.
Today was a whirlwind of architectural wonders, artistic treasures, and gastronomic delights. From the soaring heights of Giotto's Bell Tower to the savory depths of Trattoria Sostanza's butter chicken, every moment was a celebration of Florence's rich cultural heritage. As I reflect on the day's adventures, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and appreciation for this remarkable city. I anticipate tomorrow's journey to Pitti Palace and the Boboli Gardens, where I hope to discover even more of Florence's artistic and historical treasures. I think Mateo would love the Boboli Gardens. Maybe next time I'll bring Sophie and him.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore the Pitti Palace, the Boboli Gardens, and the Palatine Gallery. After another breakfast at Caffè Gilli, of course. I'm also planning on visiting Bitter Bar for a drink in the evening. I'm looking forward to another day of discovery and adventure in this beautiful city.

For now, it's time to rest and recharge for another day of exploration. Ciao!