Exploring Florence: A Family Adventure

Florentine Echoes: Unveiling Hidden Stories
Today was a deep dive into the heart of Florence, beyond the bustling tourist trails and into the quieter corners where history and art whisper their stories. It’s days like these that remind me why I love to travel – the unexpected discoveries and the chance to connect with a place on a more intimate level. Florence continues to surprise and enchant, revealing new layers with each passing day.
Il Granaio Ristorante. Aishath and Ibrahim particularly enjoyed the fresh pastries, while I savored a strong espresso, fueling up for a day of exploration. It's amazing how a simple meal can set the tone for the adventures ahead. The positive reviews I had read about Il Granaio Ristorante were spot on, and it was a delightful way to start our day.


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

First on our itinerary was Palazzo Martelli. This hidden gem is located a short walk from the Florence Cathedral. From the outside, the Palazzo has a simple facade, but the inside is filled with amazing art. It felt like stepping back in time as we wandered through the rooms, each filled with stories of the Martelli family. The family clearly had close ties to the Medici family, and were patrons of the arts. I was particularly struck by the ballroom and the rooms decorated with frescoes and trompe-l'oeil, which created the illusion of even grander spaces. I learned that Francesca Martelli, the last of the Martelli line, bequeathed the house to the curia of Florence in 1986. It eventually became a state museum in 2006, allowing the public to appreciate the family's art collection and the palace's stunning interiors.


Explore Palazzo Martelli, a hidden gem in Florence showcasing exquisite Renaissance art and history in an intimate palace setting.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found not in the grand monuments, but in the quiet corners where history lingers.

Next, we visited the San Marco Museum. Housed in a 15th-century Dominican convent, it's home to the largest collection of paintings by Fra Beato Angelico. As we walked through the convent, I was struck by the serenity of the place. The cells, where the monks once lived, are adorned with Angelico's frescoes, each a masterpiece of color and light. Ibrahim was particularly fascinated by the cell of Girolamo Savonarola, the fiery preacher who challenged the corruption of the clergy. It was a powerful reminder of the complex history of Florence, where art and religion often intertwined.


Explore the San Marco Museum in Florence, a hidden gem showcasing the divine artistry of the Renaissance, including major works by Fra Angelico.

After immersing ourselves in Renaissance art, it was time for lunch. We stumbled upon Burro & Acciughe, a charming restaurant known for its anchovy-based dishes. Aishath, always the adventurous one, insisted we try the spaghetti with Cantabrian anchovies, pine nuts, and crumbs of black toasted bread. It was surprisingly delicious, the saltiness of the anchovies perfectly balanced by the other ingredients. I opted for the fried anchovies with sage, a simple yet satisfying dish that captured the essence of Florentine cuisine. Burro & Acciughe is open from Tuesday to Sunday for dinner, and also for lunch on the weekends.


Experience exquisite seafood dining in Florence at Burro & Acciughe - where every dish tells a story.

Our final stop for the day was the Cappelle Medicee, the Medici Chapels. This opulent mausoleum is a testament to the power and wealth of the Medici family. The Chapel of the Princes, with its massive dome and intricate marble decorations, is a sight to behold. Ibrahim was amazed by the sheer scale of the place, while Aishath appreciated the artistry and craftsmanship. I was particularly drawn to the New Sacristy, designed by Michelangelo, which houses the tombs of several Medici family members. The chapels show the Medici family's influence and legacy during the Renaissance period.


Explore the Cappelle Medicee in Florence, a historical masterpiece showcasing Michelangelo's art and the grandeur of the Medici family.

Before dinner, I decided to indulge in a little retail therapy. I ventured into Antica Spezieria Erboristeria San Simone Firenze, a historic herbalist shop that has been operating since 1700. The shop offered a large selection of cosmetics and perfumes. I purchased a few handcrafted soaps and a bottle of their signature cologne, Via Dei Tornabuoni, a scent that captures the essence of Florence. It’s a little piece of Florence I can take back home with me to remember this trip.


Experience the essence of Florence at Antica Spezieria Erboristeria San Simone, a historic herbal medicine store with a rich selection of beauty and wellness products.

For dinner, we dined at Buca San Giovanni Frigest. This restaurant is located steps away from the Duomo. The restaurant's decor and atmosphere made us feel relaxed. We enjoyed classic Florentine dishes, savoring the flavors of Tuscany. It was the perfect end to a day filled with art, history, and hidden gems.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at Buca San Giovanni Frigest in Florence – where tradition meets taste in an inviting atmosphere.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to explore this beautiful city with my family. Florence has a way of captivating the senses and nourishing the soul. It's a place where history comes alive, where art is everywhere you look, and where the simple pleasures of life are celebrated.

Tomorrow marks the end of our Florentine adventure. We plan to visit Piazzale Michelangelo for a panoramic view of the city, the Basilica di Santa Trinita, and the Basilica di San Lorenzo. In the evening, we'll celebrate our last night in Florence with drinks at the Loggia Roof Bar, soaking in the atmosphere one last time before we head back to Toronto. I'm already looking forward to sharing more stories and photos from our final day in this magical city.

There are several events taking place in Florence right now. For women's art there is Empowering Visions in 20 Years of the Max Mara Art Prize for Women at Giardino Bardini. At Palazzo Medici Riccardi there is the Giovan Battista Foggini (1652-1725) – Grand Ducal architect and sculptor exhibition. And for music lovers, Muse's greatest hits are played by Drones from 9pm on April 18, at the Hard Rock Cafe Florence.