Exploring the Heart of Renaissance: A Journey to Florence

Whispers of the Past

Today, Florence unveiled more of her secrets, offering a deeper connection to the Renaissance than I could have imagined. It wasn't just about ticking off the famous landmarks, but truly experiencing the pulse of this historic city. Jan and I, along with our friends, ventured into the heart of Florence, ready to absorb the art, culture, and stories woven into its very fabric.



Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Hotel Lungarno. Sipping on strong Italian coffee while overlooking the Arno River was the perfect way to set the tone for a day of exploration. The gentle murmur of the city waking up, combined with the promise of artistic discoveries, filled me with anticipation.


Discover elegance at Hotel Lungarno, where luxury meets breathtaking views along Florence's iconic Arno River.

First on our itinerary was the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella. From the outside, the Basilica presents a striking facade of white and green marble, a testament to the architectural genius of Leon Battista Alberti. The geometric designs seemed to dance in the morning light, drawing us closer to its hallowed halls. Inside, the Basilica was a sanctuary of Gothic grandeur, where frescoes by masters like Masaccio and Ghirlandaio narrated biblical stories with vivid detail. The sheer scale of the interior was breathtaking, and I found myself lost in the intricate details of the artwork, each telling a story of faith, artistry, and Florentine history. It's amazing to think that the foundation stone of this basilica was laid in 1279! Jan was particularly interested in the astronomical instruments that were once installed in the basilica, used to calculate the solar year. His enthusiasm for history always adds an extra layer of depth to our explorations.


Explore the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella in Florence: A stunning blend of art, history, and architecture in the heart of the Renaissance.

Leaving the Basilica, we made our way to the Museo Nazionale del Bargello, a treasure trove of Renaissance sculpture. Housed in what was once a palace, barracks, and prison, the Bargello now holds masterpieces by Donatello, Michelangelo, and Cellini. The collection was astounding. Donatello's David stood proudly, a symbol of Florentine resilience and artistic innovation. Seeing Michelangelo's Bacchus, with its intricate details and lifelike form, was a truly awe-inspiring experience. I was particularly drawn to the collection of medals, over 10,000 pieces from the 15th to the 19th century, each one a tiny window into the past. The museum itself is a historical artifact, once the oldest public building in Florence, dating back to 1255. Róisín remarked on the building's history, noting that it served as a prison until 1859, a stark contrast to its current role as a guardian of art and culture.


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

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

For lunch, we ventured to Il Latini, a renowned Florentine restaurant known for its authentic Tuscan cuisine and lively atmosphere. As we approached, we were greeted by a bustling crowd eager to enter this culinary haven. Inside, the restaurant was a maze-like space adorned with aged prosciutto hanging from the ceilings and walls covered in art. We were seated at a communal table with a friendly couple from Australia, who were just beginning their Italian adventure. The shared experience of savoring traditional Florentine dishes created a sense of camaraderie and celebration. The menu was a feast for the senses, featuring a never-ending flow of wine, starters of ham, salad, and liver pate, followed by a mountain of meat, pudding, sweet wine, and limoncella. The Bistecca alla Fiorentina was the star of the show, cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. It was a true Florentine family-style experience, filled with laughter, good food, and the warmth of shared moments.


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

After our hearty lunch, we strolled towards Piazza della Repubblica, one of Florence's main squares and a historical crossroads. The piazza marks the center of the city since Roman times. Originally the site of the city's forum, it later became the location of the old ghetto. The square is now a vibrant hub, filled with cafes, shops, and street performers. The Colonna della Dovizia, also known as the Column of Abundance, stands as a reminder of the square's historical significance. We paused to admire the Arcone, a triumphal arch that dominates the square, and soaked in the lively atmosphere, surrounded by the echoes of Florence's past. It's fascinating to think that this square was once the site of the Roman forum, the heart of the ancient city. Jan, ever the history enthusiast, pointed out the remnants of the Roman city beneath our feet, adding another layer to our understanding of this vibrant space.


Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Piazza della Repubblica, Florence's iconic square filled with history, culture, and lively street performances.

As evening approached, we sought refuge in The Joshua Tree Pub, a cozy establishment near the Santa Maria Novella train station. Despite its somewhat Irish-sounding name, the pub was filled with locals, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The bartenders were passionate about their craft, eager to share their knowledge of local Lombardian beers. We sampled a variety of brews, each with its unique flavor and character. The pub's friendly ambiance and excellent selection of drinks made it the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration. Sipping on a cold beer, surrounded by the murmur of Italian conversations, I felt a sense of contentment and connection to this vibrant city.


Experience the heart of Florence at The Joshua Tree Pub, where great food, drinks, and sports come together in a cozy atmosphere.

The day concluded with a delightful dinner at Trattoria Sostanza, a culinary gem known for its traditional Tuscan dishes and unpretentious atmosphere. The trattoria's white-tiled walls were adorned with photographs and prints, creating a cozy and inviting ambiance. We savored Tuscan specialties like finocchiona, slow-cooked beans, and the renowned butter chicken, served sizzling in the pan. The flavors were rich and authentic, a testament to the trattoria's commitment to preserving Tuscan culinary traditions. For dessert, we indulged in the house specialty, a heavenly concoction of cream and meringue surrounded by wild strawberries. It was the perfect ending to a day filled with culinary delights.


Discover the authentic taste of Italy at Trattoria Sostanza in Florence – home to delicious steaks and classic Tuscan dishes.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience Florence in such a profound way. Each location we visited, from the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella to the Museo Nazionale del Bargello, Piazza della Repubblica, The Joshua Tree Pub and the Trattoria Sostanza, offered a unique glimpse into the city's rich history and vibrant culture. Florence is not just a city of art and architecture; it is a living, breathing testament to the power of human creativity and the enduring spirit of the Renaissance.


Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Palazzo Vecchio, Casa Buonarroti, and Piazzale Michelangelo. I am particularly excited about visiting the Piazzale Michelangelo, as I have heard the panoramic views of Florence are simply breathtaking. Of course, we'll need to fuel up with another delicious breakfast, this time at Golden View Firenze. I'm also looking forward to browsing the Davide Cerasi Leather Boutique; perhaps I'll find a special memento to bring back home to Warsaw.


I am so glad I remembered to pack my comfortable walking shoes, as they have been essential for navigating the cobblestone streets of Florence. I am, however, regretting forgetting the adapter for Italian power outlets. It has made charging my camera a bit challenging, but thankfully, Jan had one in his bag. All in all, today has been a wonderful experience, and I am eager to see what tomorrow brings.