Florence, as the ‘culla del Rinascimento’ (cradle of the Renaissance), is one of Italy’s most prized possessions. The city is home to the richest cultural blossoming in Italian history: as a vibrant art city, it boasts Giotto frescoes, Botticelli paintings and Michelangelo’s David, as well as majestic architecture with revolutionary designs. Its literary influence is unrivalled as the birthplace of Niccolò Macchiavelli, Botticelli and most importantly, Dante Alighieri. Florence’s cultural significance means it welcomes a steady flow of tourists all year round. Everyone is familiar with the wonders of the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio and Palazzo Vecchio , but what lies beyond the iconic faces of Florence - what else does the city have to offer?
The Central Market:
Usually frequented by locals purchasing their week’s groceries, the “Mercato Centrale” is an indoor food market which is open Monday to Saturday, and it is a true feast for the eyes. Here you can find a large selection of fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, fish, cheeses, breads, fresh pasta and pastries, all pivotal to Italy’s legendary gastronomic culture. It is the ideal opportunity to sample typical Florentine and Tuscan specialities such as ‘trippa’ (boiled tripe often enjoyed in a panino), and ‘finocchiona,’ fennel salami. Busy little cafés and stalls around the outside of the market provide seating and tables where you can experience the local produce authentically.
Synagogue:
Across Florence’s striking red-roofed skyline, an unusual, green copper dome stands out, atypical to the rest. This belongs to Florence’s Orthodox Jewish synagogue, located on Via Luigi Carlo Farini. It is little known, yet is one of the most stunning buildings in Florence, entirely different to the medieval and Renaissance architecture surrounding it. It was built in celebration of the emancipation of the Italian Jews in 1861, following the unification of Italy. Its architecture hails from a range of influences: Moorish revival, elements of opulent Arab and Byzantine, and Venetian mosaics in geometric polychrome which adorn the entire interior. Florentine input contributed the alternate layers of travertine and rose limestone that create a striking, striped effect, much like that of the Duomo. The overall result is remarkable, and well worth a visit.
Piazza Santo Spirito:
As part of the district of Oltrarno, this neighbourhood is the most typical and authentic in the city centre. Less discovered by tourists who often do not venture so far beyond Ponte Vecchio, Santo Spirito is a tranquil area whose narrow side roads still resemble the Florence of old with its picturesque vintage boutiques, handicraft workshops and low-priced hidden taverns. This is where true Florentine life unfolds in all its distinctive charm. In the evenings, the Piazza becomes a social hotspot, where students, musicians and street artists gather together on the steps of the Basilica di Santo Spirito and enjoy an aperativo.
San Miniato al Monte:
Beautiful Piazzale Michelangelo is often, unfortunately, far too crowded, with tourists and cameras dominating the entire square. Peaceful San Miniato al Monte, nearby, is the perfect alternative. The incredible panoramic viewpoint, which extends across the entire valley Florence sits in, is well worth the extra climb from Piazzale Michaelangelo. The church itself is also not to be overlooked. The basilica is a stunning example of Florentine Romanesque architecture at its prime, with a beautiful inlaid façade and decorative interior.