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Florence
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Da Vinci's birthplaceAbout a half-hour's drive from Florence down a small country road is an old farmhouse in the town of Anchiano. Here it is believed that Leonardo da Vinci was born in April of 1452. Farther down the road in the town of Vinci is the chapel where he was christened. La CasalingaFor comfort food in a Tuscan setting, look no further than this quaint little establishment. What else would you expect from a restaurant whose name translates to "housewife"? Piazzale MichelangeloIf you're in the mood for a scenic stroll, walk along the banks of the Arno River to the base of Piazzale Michelangelo. Here, climb the steps to the top for an incredible view. Basilica di San LorenzoDon't let the modest exterior fool you. This pure example of Renaissance architecture is full of surprises. Intricately designed bronze Donatello doors welcome you into a spacious sanctuary where Brunelleschi's clean lines of dark pietra serena form a striking contrast to the light stucco backdrop. The Caffè "Giubbe Rosse"Named for the red jackets worn by the waiters, this unassuming café saw the humble beginnings of many social and artistic movements in Italy, including Futurism. Take in a light lunch and contemplate an innovation of your own. MadovaIn Italy, even hands deserve la dolce vida. This family-owned boutique offers an array of handmade leather gloves in every shape, color and size. Lined in cashmere, silk, wool or fur, the friendly staff makes sure your selection will "fit like a glove." San GimienanoThe ultimate status symbol in this quarrelsome medieval town was a tall family tower. While only 14 of the original 72 towers remain, this captivating Tuscan city is a study of what can happen when egos run wild. Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria NovellaA tucked-away Florentine jewel, this charming pharmacy displays the results of more than 800 years of work by the Dominican monks who call it home. Following centuries-old formulas, the shop sells ancient remedies and tonics alongside hand-molded soaps and perfumed powders. Dante's HouseIf any place could be called the birthplace of the Renaissance, this is it. Buried deep within Florence's historic center, is the home of the poet Dante, whose unbridled love of language spurred future Florentines to follow their artistic and intellectual passions. Villa GameraiaHead to the hills of Settignano and this picturesque estate to understand what Edith Wharton meant when she described its beautiful formal gardens as "the most perfect example even in Italy of great effect on a small scale." |
