SOUVENIRS FROM: Florence
#1 Il Santo Bevitore | #2 Manifattura Tabacchi | #3 ReUse Italy Summer Workshop | #4 San Miniato al Monte
This summer I spent a longer time in Florence, because I attended the Summer Workshop of Reuse Italy. Even though I spent most of the day participating in the workshop program, I was still able to explore the city in the evenings, which I immediately grew fond of. In addition to art and culture, there is also a lot to discover off the beaten track.
Food & Beverage:
Il Santo Bevitore
A cozy, iconic restaurant with great food and a good wine selection. The accompanying wine bar keeps the street lively. This is the place where locals meet for a glass of wine after work. Personal recommendation: risotto with coffee powder + white vine: Il Colombaio di Santachiara
I Fratellini
This place offers the best paninis in town at a fair price. Besides the great food, the tiny store (more like a niche) is very worth seeing - the way they prepare food in such a small space is very impressive.
OPERA Riverside Albereta
A great location across the river Arno. A bit out of the center but worth a walk, especially if you are with a larger group. There are several food and drink stalls, music is played and one has a great view towards the city.
Art & Architecture & Culture
Santa Maria Novella
The Gothic church of Santa Maria Novella is definitely worth seeing, but especially the two adjacent cloisters and the adjoining Spanish chapel. The cloisters form a real oasis in the city and the Spanish chapel with its beautiful frescoes by Andrea di Bonaiuto is very impressive. Everything is included in one ticket.
San Miniato al Monte
The Basilica of San Miniato al Monte is located on the highest point of the city and is not only one of the oldest, but also one of the most beautiful churches in the city. The atmosphere inside is unique.
Tip: walk up and ride down by bike.
Cappelle Medicee
With the same ticket you can enter the New Sacristy and the Prince's chapel. The New Sacristy is Michelangelo's work, where he designed not only the architecture but also the sculptures inside. The Prince's Chapel is very impressive because of its dimensions and the decoration in various shades of marble.
Stroll & Explore
Oltrarno
Oltrarno is located on the opposite side of the city center of Florence and is known for the Pitti Palace and the Boboli Gardens. However, this is not the only reason why this district is worth a visit. It has the highest density of cafés, restaurants and small stores and is bursting with energy - especially at night around the Campo Santo Spirito.
Manifattura Tabacchi
The former Tobacco Factory from the 40s is located a little outside the center. In recent years it has been converted into an art and cultural venue. Bars, cafés, exhibition spaces and small stores are now located in the former factory buildings where exciting events take place on a regular basis.
ReUse Italy
For the past few years, a workshop dedicated to the revitalization/reuse of an Italian heritage site has been hosted in Florence by ReUse Italy. International architecture students as well as graduates can apply to the program. You then work in small groups on a design dedicated to the reuse and revitalization of this particular ruin. In addition to lectures by interesting international architects, you will be coached by local tutors. A great experience that has resulted in many new friendships and collaborations.