Family Adventure in Florence: Exploring Renaissance Wonders

Whispers of the Renaissance

Today was a day of diving deep into the heart of the Renaissance, a journey through sculpture, art, and the echoes of spiritual devotion. Florence, even in the chill of January, has a way of warming the soul with its artistic treasures. I found myself captivated by the stories etched in stone and painted on the walls, each telling a tale of a city that shaped the world.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Cantina Barbagianni. It's a cozy spot, and the aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Italian coffee was the perfect start to a day of exploration. Sophie was particularly excited, having read about the museums we were planning to visit in her art history books. Fuelled up, we set off to the Bargello National Museum. The brisk morning air nipped at our cheeks, but the anticipation of seeing masterpieces up close kept us warm.


Discover the artistic heritage of Florence at Museo Nazionale del Bargello, home to masterpieces by Michelangelo and Donatello.

The Bargello was once a palace, a prison, and now a treasure trove of Renaissance sculpture. As a librarian specializing in historical archives, I'm always fascinated by the layers of history a building can hold. The courtyard itself was stunning, a perfect example of the transition from medieval fortress to Renaissance elegance. Inside, the sheer volume of sculptures was breathtaking. Donatello's David, Michelangelo's Bacchus, and works by the Della Robbia family – it was like stepping into a textbook. Hans, ever the practical one, was impressed by the craftsmanship, while Sophie was busy sketching in her notebook, capturing the details that caught her eye.

Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.

We spent a good few hours wandering through the halls, each piece telling a story of artistic innovation and cultural shift. The Bargello truly houses the most important collection of Renaissance Tuscan sculpture in the world. I was particularly drawn to Donatello's sculptures, the way he captured human emotion in bronze and marble was simply remarkable. Sophie was mesmerized by the intricacies of Cellini's Perseus, while Hans was fascinated by the collection of arms and armor, a reminder of the building's past as a seat of power.

After the Bargello, we walked towards Piazza San Marco, a bustling square that serves as a transportation hub. The square was recently re-landscaped, and it was nice to see people milling about, despite the cold. In the center stands a statue of General Manfredo Fanti, a figure from the era of Italian unification. Cafes lined the southern side of the piazza, including the Gran Caffè San Marco, historically a meeting place for intellectuals. We paused to take in the scene before heading to our next destination: the San Marco Museum.


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

The San Marco Museum, housed in a 15th-century Dominican convent, was a completely different experience. The convent, renovated by Michelozzo, is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, and the museum is home to the largest collection of paintings by Fra Angelico. As we stepped inside, a sense of tranquility washed over us. The winter light filtered through the windows, illuminating the frescoes that adorned the walls of the monks' cells.

Each cell was a sanctuary, a space for contemplation and prayer, brought to life by Fra Angelico's divine artistry. The Annunciation, in particular, was breathtaking. The delicate colors, the serene expressions, it was a moment of pure beauty. Sophie, who is always drawn to the spiritual aspects of art, was deeply moved. We also visited the cell where Girolamo Savonarola, the fiery preacher, lived. It was a somber reminder of the turbulent times in Florentine history.

The San Marco Museum offered a glimpse into monastic life, a world of devotion, study, and artistic creation. Wandering through the cloisters and cells, I felt a connection to the past, a sense of the enduring power of faith and art. The museum itself is part of a large complex of an old Dominican monastery that was restored in the second half of the 1400s. The architecture, combined with the art, creates a truly unique and moving experience.

For lunch, we ventured to Club Culinario Toscano da Osvaldo, a restaurant recommended for its authentic Tuscan cuisine. The reviews I had read promised a bustling atmosphere and reasonable prices, and it did not disappoint. We shared a selection of Tuscan cured meats and cheeses, followed by homemade pasta dishes. Hans, who appreciates a good glass of wine, was impressed by the local Chianti. Sophie, always adventurous, tried the rabbit, a Tuscan specialty. The restaurant had a cozy, old-world charm, and the staff were friendly and welcoming. It was a perfect midday refuel.


Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine at Club Culinario Toscano da Osvaldo in Florence – where every dish tells a story.

As evening approached, we decided to explore the Oltrarno district, known for its artisan workshops and vibrant nightlife. We crossed the Ponte Vecchio, marveling at the shops built along it, and wandered through the narrow streets, admiring the leather goods and handcrafted jewelry. The area had a different feel from the more touristy areas of Florence, a sense of authenticity and local flavor. I picked up a small leather-bound journal, a perfect souvenir to document our travels.

For our evening aperitivo, we ventured to Mad - Souls & Spirits, a bar known for its creative cocktails. The bar was small and unpretentious, with a lively atmosphere. The bartenders were passionate about their craft, and the menu featured a range of innovative drinks. I tried a Negroni with a twist, while Hans opted for a classic Old Fashioned. Sophie, who is not yet of age, enjoyed a sparkling Italian soda. It was a fun and relaxed way to end the day, soaking in the Florentine atmosphere. I am glad we were able to enjoy some time together, especially as tomorrow, we will be visiting the Florence Academy of Fine Arts, Villa Bardini, and Piazza della Santissima Annunziata. It will be another busy day, but I am excited to continue exploring this beautiful city.


Discover Mad - Souls & Spirits, where innovative cocktails meet a vibrant nightlife in the heart of Florence.

Before heading back to the hotel, we decided to have dinner at Il Latini, a renowned Florentine trattoria. The restaurant was buzzing with energy, a mix of locals and tourists all eager to sample the traditional Tuscan cuisine. The aroma of grilled meat filled the air, and the sight of the hanging prosciutto hams was mouthwatering. We shared a Bistecca alla Fiorentina, a thick-cut steak cooked rare, and it was absolutely divine. The lively, friendly atmosphere made the decent Tuscan home cooking taste all the better. The staff recommended that we sit back and enjoy the ride “famiglia” style which meant everything got chucked in the middle for sharing.


Discover authentic Tuscan cuisine at Il Latini in Florence - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

The steak was served with herby roast potatoes and white beans drizzled with the pungent house olive oil. The waiters kept bringing shots and wine, which appeared to be on the house. There are no exact prices, and the waiter determines your meal's cost. It was a perfect end to a day immersed in Florentine art, history, and culture. As we walked back to Hotel Cerretani Mgallery Collection, the city lights twinkled around us, casting a magical glow on the Renaissance facades. Florence, even in the depths of winter, had captured our hearts.


Experience the heart of Florence at Hotel Cerretani Mgallery Collection, a luxurious stay near iconic landmarks, offering top-notch amenities and exceptional service.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Accademia Gallery to see Michelangelo's David, Villa Bardini for panoramic views, and Piazza della Santissima Annunziata. Another day of art and exploration awaits, and I can't wait to see what Florence has in store for us.