Discover Florence’s Most Authentic Experiences, From Artisanal Craft to Timeless Traditions
February 1, 2024 – Florence Hidden Gems
In Florence, Where Each Step is an Ode to Creativity, the City Unveils Itself as a Harmonious Blend of Craftsmanship and Cinematic Magic Inviting You to Be Part of Its Narrative.
In the heart of Italy, where the Arno River gently winds its way through a city of unparalleled beauty. Florence stands as a living canvas of history, fashion, and cultural opulence. From the iconic Hotel Savoy to the cobblestone streets echoing Marilyn Monroe‘s cinematic footsteps. Here, every corner tells a story, inviting you to immerse yourself in an unrivaled tapestry of experiences. Here’s a round-up of must-visit hidden gem experiences in Florence:
Fashion Odyssey:
Embark on your exploration at the Scuola del Cuoio in the ancient Santa Croce neighborhood, where artisans, in the hallowed halls of this historic leather school, employ time-honored methods to craft exquisite leather products. A behind-the-scenes tour offers a glimpse of craftsmen gilding their creations with 22kt gold. Engage in a hands-on workshop led by a master craftsman, fashioning your chic leather item and adding a personal touch with initials. As a parting gift, discover the enchanting Church of Santa Croce, accessed through a secret passage within the leather school.
Sensory Elevation:
Continue your journey to the realm of Santa Maria Novella, an institution gracing Florence for over 400 years. Founded by monks, this prestigious pharmacy has earned international acclaim for handmade, cult beauty products. A private museum tour at Officina Profumo Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella reveals chapters of the pharmacy’s storied history, from the Ancient Apothecary’s Shop to the Green Room. Explore the Sacristy, adorned with Gothic frescoes and housing distilled waters of Rose water since the 17th century.
Elevate your sensory experience with AquaFlor Firenze, delving into Florentine perfumery’s art and tradition. Founded in 2009, AquaFlor, in the heart of Santa Croce, celebrates the science and pleasure of scent. Craft your bespoke fragrance during a tour of the exclusive AquaFlor Maison de Parfum, guided by a specialist versed in the history of traditional Florentine perfumery, utilizing a library of over 1,500 natural essences and rare raw materials.
Cinematic Marvels and Cultural Riches:
Venture into the streets of Florence, tracing connections between Marilyn Monroe and luxury brands like Chanel N°5 and Guerlain Rouge. Witness the installations of Joana Vasconcelos at Palazzo Pitti, including the sculpture “Marilyn,” inspired by the actress’s iconic shoes in “The Seven Year Itch“.
The journey reaches its zenith at the Museo Ferragamo, a tribute to Salvatore Ferragamo, the visionary designer behind Marilyn’s footwear, showcasing the intersection of fashion, art, and cinema.
Transition seamlessly from fashion to cinematic history with a walk in the footsteps of “The English Patient.” Traverse the Val d’Orcia region, where cinematic landscapes unfold against rolling hills. Explore Pienza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Monastery of Sant’Anna in Camprena, a former refuge immortalized in film. From the rustic charm of Ripafratta to the Gothic Basilica of San Francesco in Arezzo, Florence’s cinematic history invites exploration.
Historic Sojourn at Castello Sonnino:
Transition from the allure of fashion and cinema to the historic Castello Sonnino, a perfectly preserved gem overlooking the Chianti hills. Dating back to the 13th century, this castle, once a customs post between Florence and Siena, breathes life into over 500 years of history. Walk through its hallowed halls, housing an eclectic collection of objects, books, and memorabilia. Experience the vineyard, monumental wine cellars, and the 17th-century “vinsantaia” before indulging in a VIP Tuscan lunch, a feast of local flavors paired with estate wines.
Explore the castle’s 13th-century tower, private apartments, historic archive, and the vast library of Prime Minister Baron Sidney Sonnino. This repository of over 200,000 documents, including the Treaty of Versailles Peace Congress agreement, offers a profound glimpse into Italy’s political history.
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