Exploring the Renaissance Wonders of Florence with Erika

Florence From Above and Beyond

Today was a day of contrasts, a journey through Florence that took us from the heart of its bustling center to the serene heights overlooking the city. Erika and I embarked on a quest to absorb more of Florence's history and beauty, a mission that proved both rewarding and exhausting in the best possible way. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel, to discover, and to share these experiences with you all.

Our day began, as most do in Florence, with the promise of architectural marvels and artistic wonders. After a delightful breakfast at Trattoria Sostanza, known for its traditional Florentine cuisine, we set our sights on the Campanile di Giotto.


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

The morning air was crisp, a typical January chill that invigorates the senses and sharpens the eye for detail. The sky, a pale winter blue, provided a perfect backdrop for the colorful marble of the Campanile. As an antique shop owner, I appreciate the craftsmanship and artistry that goes into creating lasting beauty, and the Campanile is a testament to the skill of its creators.

The Campanile di Giotto, a freestanding bell tower that forms part of the Florence Cathedral complex, stands as one of the finest examples of Florentine Gothic architecture. Designed by Giotto, the tower is adorned with rich sculptural decorations and polychrome marble encrustations. As Erika and I approached, I couldn't help but marvel at the structure's slender elegance, rising 84.7 meters (277.9 feet) into the sky. The tower is divided into five stages, each showcasing a different architectural style, from Gothic to Renaissance. The geometric simplicity of the design is striking, and the use of green, white, and pink marble creates a visually stunning effect.


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

We decided to climb the Campanile, a challenge that promised panoramic views of Florence. The ascent involved navigating just over 400 steps, a task that tested our stamina but rewarded us with breathtaking vistas at each level. As we climbed, I paused to admire the intricate details of the tower's decorations. The first level features hexagonal marble tiles with sculpted reliefs, depicting the history of mankind. These tiles, crafted by Andrea Pisano and his assistants, tell stories of creation, evolution, and the development of human skills and labor. The civilization of man is depicted through images symbolizing the learning of the skills and labor needed to survive, from the creation of man and the start of agriculture to more advanced skills such as music, medicine, hunting, textiles, navigation, painting, poetry, math, and astrology.

Reaching the top of the Campanile was an exhilarating experience. The panoramic views of Florence were simply stunning. From this vantage point, the city unfolded before us, a tapestry of terracotta rooftops, winding streets, and iconic landmarks. The Duomo, with its magnificent dome, stood proudly beside us, a testament to Brunelleschi's genius. The Arno River snaked its way through the city, reflecting the winter sunlight. I pointed out the Palazzo Vecchio, the Ponte Vecchio, and the Uffizi Gallery to Erika, sharing stories of their history and significance. The crisp air and the stunning views made the climb worthwhile, and we lingered for a while, soaking in the beauty of Florence from above.

To truly see a city, you must not only walk its streets but also ascend to its heights, gaining a perspective that reveals its hidden beauty and timeless charm.

After descending from the Campanile, we sought a change of pace and scenery. We decided to visit the Basilica di San Miniato al Monte, a Romanesque church perched atop one of the highest points in Florence.


Explore the majestic Basilica di San Miniato in Florence, where history, art, and breathtaking views converge in a tranquil setting.

The basilica is located on a hill overlooking the city, offering a serene and panoramic setting. We took a taxi to Piazzale Michelangelo, a popular overlook point, and then walked the remaining distance to the basilica. The walk was pleasant, and the views along the way were breathtaking.

The Basilica di San Miniato al Monte is considered one of the finest examples of Romanesque architecture in Tuscany. Its origins trace back to St. Miniato, Florence's first martyr, who was beheaded during the anti-Christian persecutions of Emperor Decius in the 3rd century. According to legend, Miniato picked up his head after being beheaded, crossed the Arno, and walked up the hill to his hermitage. A shrine was later erected at this spot, and the present church was begun in 1013 by Bishop Alibrando.

As we approached the basilica, I was struck by its simple yet elegant facade. The geometrically patterned marble façade, begun around 1090, features white marble from Carrara and green marble from Prato. The upper parts of the façade date from the 12th century and were financed by the Florentine Arte di Calimala, the cloth merchants' guild responsible for the church's upkeep. The eagle, which crowns the façade, was their symbol. The mosaic on the pediment, depicting Christ in benediction between the Virgin and St. Miniato, dates from the beginning of the 13th century.

Inside the basilica, the atmosphere was serene and contemplative. The interior is decorated with black and white marble panels, creating a striking visual effect. The raised presbytery and the crypt below are particularly noteworthy. The crypt, the oldest part of the church, is believed to house the bones of St. Miniato himself. We spent some time exploring the church, admiring the mosaics, the marble inlay work, and the ancient capitals. The basilica combines a basilical plan of classical origin with Romanesque elements, creating a unique and harmonious space.

Adjacent to the church is an Olivetan monastery, where monks produce and sell liqueurs, honey, and herbal teas. We visited the monastery shop and purchased some of their products, a small token of our visit to this sacred place. The Basilica di San Miniato al Monte offered a peaceful retreat from the bustling city, a place to reflect on the history, art, and spirituality of Florence.

Our final stop for the day was Piazza della Repubblica, one of the main squares in Florence.


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

This square has been the center of the city since Roman times, when it was the site of the forum. Today, Piazza della Repubblica is a bustling hub of activity, known for its elegant architecture, historic cafes, and lively atmosphere. After the tranquility of San Miniato, the energy of the piazza was a stark contrast. The square was filled with people, street performers, and vendors, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere.

The history of Piazza della Repubblica is rich and complex. In Roman times, the square was the center of the city, marking the intersection of the cardo and decumanus, the two main axial streets of Roman towns. During the medieval period, the square was a market area and the site of the Jewish Ghetto. In the 19th century, when Florence was the capital of Italy, the square underwent significant renovations. Many medieval buildings were demolished, and elegant palaces and cafes were built, transforming the area into the parlor of Florence.

As we strolled through the piazza, I pointed out the Colonna dell'Abbondanza, a column that marks the exact geographical center of the city and the ancient midpoint of the Roman Forum. The square is also home to several historic cafes, such as Caffè Gilli, Caffè Paskowski, and Caffè delle Giubbe Rosse, which were meeting points for artists and writers in the past. We stopped at one of these cafes for a coffee and a pastry, soaking in the atmosphere of this historic square.

For dinner, we decided to indulge in a traditional Florentine meal at Il Latini, a renowned trattoria known for its Bistecca alla Fiorentina.


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

The restaurant was bustling with activity, filled with locals and tourists alike. The atmosphere was lively and convivial, and the aroma of Tuscan cuisine filled the air. We ordered the Bistecca alla Fiorentina, a thick-cut steak grilled to perfection, and savored every bite. The steak was tender, juicy, and full of flavor, a true culinary delight. We also sampled other Tuscan specialties, such as ribollita, a hearty vegetable soup, and pappa al pomodoro, a tomato and bread soup. The meal was a fitting end to a day of exploring Florence's treasures.

After dinner, we stopped by the Green Street Bar for a nightcap.


Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Green Street Bar, a must-visit spot in Florence for cocktails, wine, and unforgettable experiences.

The bar had a relaxed and friendly vibe, and we enjoyed a couple of cocktails before heading back to our hotel. It was the perfect way to end a long day of exploration, sipping on expertly crafted drinks in a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

As I reflect on today's experiences, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to explore Florence's rich history and beauty with Erika. From the heights of the Campanile di Giotto and the Basilica di San Miniato al Monte to the bustling energy of Piazza della Repubblica, today was a day of contrasts, a journey through the heart and soul of Florence. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Santa Maria a Scò, Opera del Duomo Museum, and Piazza della Santissima Annunziata, continuing our exploration of this remarkable city. I am excited to see what new discoveries await us, and I look forward to sharing them with you all.

Until tomorrow,
Hiroshi Tanaka