Location: Santo Spirito
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Things to do in Florence, Tuscany: The Best Churches & Cathedrals
Florence is an art historian’s dream. The Galleria dell'Accademia bursts with works by Michelangelo, who is entombed within the frescoed walls of the Basilica di Santa Croce. Budding photographers can snap pics of the Ponte Vecchio bridge, and serious shoppers can spend a blissful afternoon wandering the shops of Piazza Santo Spirito. Tuscan cuisine pays homage to the region’s bounty. Swipe a hunk of crusty bread across a pool of local olive oil and you’ll be instantly transported to your happiest place.
Restaurants in Florence
1. Basilica di Santo Spirito
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 379 reviews
While it may not look like much from the outside, the elaborate interior of Brunelleschi's landmark church proves that it is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture.
Reviewed By artmac21 - Inverness, United Kingdom
I came across this church after visiting the Pitti Palace. It was in an area recommended by a local for eating out in. The Church, a Basilica nonetheless, is simple on the outside but a joy inside. It’s much larger than I anticipated on the inside, but full of light, no mean feat given the time it was built. Others refer to its simplicity but it’s not. It’s full of space and light which makes everything seem less overwhelming to take in. I understand it was designed by the same architect as the Duomo, and that makes sense, as it’s got genius in it. Their is some incredible art, and an alter that is astounding. It’s free to get in but you need two euros in coins to access the sacristy with Michelangelo’s crucifix. I didn’t have that and was slightly disappointed but next time I will be prepared. However, the works available freely made up for this. It’s a working church and I suspect locally cherished so no photos please. I know it seems unfair but it is place of worship first and foremost. An unexepected joy, which is a massive achievement as I’d just seen the Uffizi and the Pitti so I should have been exhausted by the art. I wasn’t. It renewed me and astounded me, given the age of the church, it’s construction and art are mind blowing. A real treasure.
2. Church of Santa Felicita
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 116 reviews
The small church of Santa Felicita was used by the Medici family dukes and holds the Mannerist artist Pontormo's masterpiece, "The Deposition." The unusual colors, exaggerated poses and expressive portraits are an unforgettable theatrical scene..
Reviewed By 130Doug - Kennett Square, United States
We had grabbed a quick meal somewhere nearby and just stumbled onto this place. Absolutely beautiful place that you shouldn't miss. It's a bit brighter in this cathedral than in some others. The smell of incense combined with the frescoes and paintings, and we could have stayed in here longer, but it's a big city that calls to every sense!
