Family Adventure in the Heart of Florence

Florentine Art Immersion

Today was a day dedicated to diving deep into the artistic soul of Florence. It’s amazing how much history and beauty is packed into this relatively small city. I wanted to experience some of the lesser-known artistic treasures, along with a bit of local flavor. With Andreas and Sophie by my side, we set out to explore the Galleria dell’Accademia, the Museo di San Marco, and the bustling Piazza San Marco. We were also hoping to find some authentic Florentine leather.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Caffè Gilli. The cafe, established in 1733, exudes an old-world charm. The marble countertops and frescoed ceilings transported us back in time. I savored a cappuccino and a *torta della nonna*, while Andreas opted for a classic espresso and Sophie chose a pastry filled with creamy ricotta. It was the perfect way to start our day of exploration. The cafe is located on Piazza Della Repubblica, which is a short walk from Ponte Vecchio, making it ideal for a break during sight seeing.

First stop: Galleria dell’Accademia. I must confess, I was primarily there to see Michelangelo's David. I’d seen pictures, of course, but nothing prepares you for the sheer size and presence of the sculpture. The way the light plays on the marble, the detail in the muscles, the expression on David's face – it's truly breathtaking. It’s no wonder this masterpiece draws crowds from all over the world. Even Sophie, who sometimes rolls her eyes at my art enthusiasm, was impressed.


Discover the masterpieces of the Renaissance at the Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze, home to Michelangelo's iconic David and more.

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

While David was undoubtedly the highlight, the Galleria dell’Accademia has so much more to offer. I was fascinated by the collection of paintings by Florentine artists, especially those from the medieval and early Renaissance periods. It provided such a rich context for understanding the evolution of art in this city. Andreas, with his keen interest in history, was particularly drawn to the musical instrument collection, marveling at the craftsmanship of the ancient violins and harpsichords. It was interesting to see that the museum was redesigned in the 19th century specifically to house the David.

After immersing ourselves in the Accademia, we made our way to the Museo di San Marco. Housed in a 15th-century monastery, this museum is a sanctuary of tranquility and artistic beauty. The Museo di San Marco is home to an extensive collection of Fra Angelico's works. As we walked through the monastery, I was struck by the serenity of the space. Each cell is adorned with frescoes, creating an intimate and spiritual atmosphere. The *Annunciation* fresco, located at the top of the stairs, is particularly striking. The delicate colors and ethereal quality of the painting are simply mesmerizing. Andreas appreciated the architecture of the convent, which was commissioned by Cosimo I de' Medici and renovated by Michelozzo. The elegant Cloister of St. Anthony provided a peaceful respite from the bustling city.


Explore the serene beauty and artistic masterpieces of Museo di San Marco in Florence, a hidden gem for lovers of Renaissance art and history.

Sophie was intrigued by the story of Girolamo Savonarola, the fiery friar who once lived in one of the cells. His passionate sermons against corruption and moral decay ultimately led to his execution in Piazza della Signoria. Seeing the cell where he lived and contemplated was a sobering reminder of the power of conviction and the complexities of history. It was interesting to read that the Basilica di San Marco used to be a Vallombrosan Monastery in the 12th century.

Next on the agenda was Piazza San Marco. The area seamlessly blends history, culture, and modern-day vibrancy. Dominated by the 17th-century facade of the San Marco church, this lively square serves as a central point for both locals and tourists. The square has been a central hub since the 1400s and has witnessed significant events, such as the 'fire & fury' of Savonarola. The square is a treasure trove of landmarks, including the Museum of San Marco and the statue of General Manfredo Fanti, each narrating a unique story of Florence's past. Surrounded by architectural marvels, it stands as a testament to the city's rich history.


Discover the enchanting Piazza San Marco, a historical landmark in Florence that offers breathtaking architecture and a vibrant atmosphere.

Lunch called for a traditional Florentine meal, so we headed to Osteria da Caterina. This *osteria* is known for its authentic cuisine and cozy atmosphere. We shared a *bistecca alla fiorentina*, cooked to perfection and seasoned with rosemary and olive oil. The meat was incredibly tender and flavorful. Sophie enjoyed a plate of homemade pasta with *ragu*, while Andreas savored a glass of Chianti Classico. It was the perfect place to recharge after a morning of art and history. The staff were extremely friendly and attentive and the food was exceptional.


Discover the authentic flavors of Tuscany at Osteria da Caterina in Florence – where traditional Italian cuisine meets warm hospitality.

No trip to Florence is complete without indulging in some retail therapy, so we dedicated the afternoon to exploring the local leather markets. Florence is renowned for its leather goods, and I was determined to find a unique souvenir to take home. We wandered through the stalls, admiring the array of bags, belts, and jackets. The vendors were enthusiastic, and the atmosphere was lively and bustling. I was on the lookout for a high-quality leather handbag, something that would last for years and remind me of this trip. Andreas was interested in finding a new leather belt, while Sophie hoped to find a stylish leather jacket.


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

The experience in the leather markets was quite overwhelming, with vendors aggressively pushing their products. It was a relief to find a small, unassuming shop away from the main tourist drag. The owner was patient and helpful, allowing me to browse at my leisure. I finally found a beautiful, handcrafted leather bag in a rich shade of brown. The leather was soft and supple, and the stitching was impeccable. It was exactly what I had been searching for. Andreas found a classic leather belt, and Sophie discovered a trendy leather jacket. It was a successful shopping excursion, and we were all thrilled with our purchases.

For dinner, we chose Il Granaio Ristorante, known for its gourmet dishes. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere and good decor, which made for a very pleasant evening. The quality of food, service and atmosphere are all rated very highly by users. I opted for the seafood risotto, while Andreas chose a traditional Florentine steak. Sophie enjoyed a plate of homemade pasta with truffle sauce. The prompt service was something that the staff cared about and the prices were average. We enjoyed the homey atmosphere as well as the good decor.


Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine at Il Granaio Ristorante in Florence – where tradition meets taste in every dish.

As the day drew to a close, we strolled along the Arno River, taking in the twinkling lights of the city. Florence is magical at night, with its ancient buildings illuminated against the dark sky. We reflected on our day of art, history, and culture, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty of this city together. Andreas mentioned that Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) has announced a groundbreaking event at the Palozzo Wanny in Florence, Italy on Saturday, April 26.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Boboli Gardens, the Palazzo Pitti, and the Basilica di Santo Spirito. I’m particularly excited to wander through the gardens, as I’ve heard they are a true oasis of green in the heart of the city. And perhaps we’ll find a cozy little bar to relax in the evening, as there's one on the itinerary.

Until then, *arrivederci* from Florence!