A journey into the heart of Santa Croce, the district that embodies Florence’s art, history, and craftsmanship.
This tour will take us through the magnificent Basilica of Santa Croce, the workshops of master artisans, and one of the most historic gelato shops in Florence.
An experience that immerses us in the true soul of the city, between great monuments, time-honored traditions, and unforgettable flavors.
THE BASILICA OF SANTA CROCE: A TEMPLE OF GREAT MINDS
We begin our visit with the majestic Basilica of Santa Croce, one of the most impressive and symbolic churches in Florence.
The tombs of the greats
Santa Croce is often called the Pantheon of Italian Glory, as it houses the tombs of some of the most brilliant minds in history:
- Michelangelo, the genius of the Renaissance.
- Galileo Galilei, the father of modern science.
- Niccolò Machiavelli, the great political thinker.
Giotto and his masterpieces
Inside the church, we will admire Giotto’s frescoes, among the most extraordinary works of the 14th century. The Bardi and Peruzzi Chapels tell the stories of St. Francis and St. John the Baptist with a revolutionary artistic language.
DANTE ALIGHIERI AND HIS CONNECTION TO FLORENCE
Santa Croce is also a place of memory for Dante Alighieri, the father of the Italian language.
Why are there two monuments dedicated to Dante?
- Outside the Basilica, you’ll find a grand 19th-century statue of Dante, created for the 500th anniversary of his birth.
- Inside the church, we will see a cenotaph (a symbolic tomb), as the poet’s remains lie in Ravenna, where he died in exile.
These monuments are proof of Florence’s deep connection to Dante, a city that once exiled him but now honors him as one of its greatest sons.
TRADITION & CRAFTSMANSHIP: THE LEATHER SCHOOL
In the heart of Santa Croce lies the School of Leather, one of Florence’s most historic artisan workshops.
Here, we will witness master leather craftsmen at work, discovering the ancient techniques of Florentine leather making—a tradition dating back to the Middle Ages.
An exclusive opportunity to see true craftsmanship up close and appreciate the excellence of Florentine artisanship.