With the substantial increase in population at the end of 1800s and the destruction of the Old Market to make way for the grand Piazza Repubblica, Florence needed new markets in addition to the small one at Loggia del Porcellino. It was decided to construct three new covered markets: San read more
The immense line in front of the Accademia rarely ebbs, even under the terrible summer sun or during oppressive humidity. All are quivering in anticipation waiting to see Michelangelo’s David, symbol of youthful beauty, strength and human perfection. But few realize that he has a deeper symbolism as well. In read more
Go and See the Explosion of the Cart Easter Morning in front of the Florence Duomo The explosion of the cart is the oldest folkloric tradition in Florence and is considered the centerpiece of Easter in Florence. From the middle ages on, this ceremony has symbolized the distribution of blessed read more
Visit Piazzale Michelangelo, Take a Walk to Porta Romana and Relax in Bobolino. Just outside of Porta Romana (Roman Gate), on both sides of Viale Machiavelli, where it climbs up the hill, lies one of Florence’s most charming public parks: Bobolino. The name takes inspiration from the nearby Boboli Gardens. read more
The Hospital of the Innocents in Piazza Santissima Annunziata takes it unusual name from being the refuge for abandoned babies. The hospital was built thanks to a donation of an important merchant from Prato, Francesco Datini. It was the first orphanage which specialized in receiving newborn babies in Europe. Babies read more
Florence, as we know is one of the most famous cities, renowned for its great beauty, culture and art. Pass through the city and you discover a unique environment, the tourists eyes wide open and full of the one-of-a-kind awe that only Florence can convey. Every corner is a marker read more
What does St. Anne have to do with Florence? Most don’t know that St. Anne is the second saint of Florence, after St. John, and is celebrated on July 26, the day the city was liberated from the domination of the Duke of Athens Gualtieri of Brienne in 1343, thanks read more
Livorno’s thriving port was created virtually from nothing; at the end of the 16th century the Medici government granted them the status of “freet port” promoting business and giving the city a giant economic boost. In efforts to populate the newborn city, the “Livornese Laws” (1591-1593) were issued that made read more
The Frescobaldi family is one of the oldest and most important families of Florence, and they have strong ties to the Santo Spirito district; in fact, the historical family palace is in Via Santo Spirito. The family has owned many buildings in the district since the 16th Century; one of read more