In Dante's footsteps in towers, churches, and iconic landmarks

Highlights

• A tour dedicated to medieval Florence
• An engaging story about Dante's history, politics, and private life
• An authentic itinerary among towers, churches, and off-the-beaten-track spots
• A local guide who tells the story of Florence through Dante

Description

Florence isn't just about the Renaissance: before Michelangelo and Leonardo, there was Dante Alighieri. This guided tour takes you to the heart of medieval Florence, among the towers, churches, and streets where the poet lived, loved, and participated in the political life of the city... and from which he was eventually exiled. The tour kicks off in the Santa Maria Novella area, one of the city's historic gateways and the perfect spot to dive into 13th-century Florence. From here, we'll head to Florence's Duomo complex and the Baptistery of San Giovanni, where Dante was baptized: a fundamental place in his spiritual and symbolic formation. We'll continue towards the Dante district, through narrow alleys and familiar towers, to Dante's House and Dante's Church. Here we'll talk about the poet's daily life, his marriage to Gemma Donati, and his idealized love for Beatrice. The tour then enters the heart of civic and medieval Florence. We'll pass by the Torre dei Castagna, linked to the city's justice system, and reach Piazza della Repubblica, the ancient area of the Roman forum and, in medieval times, the city's vital center. Not far away is Orsanmichele, a symbol of the union between religion, arts, and corporations: the economic and productive heart of Dante's Florence. Continuing on, you'll come to the Palagio della Parte Guelfa, now home to the Calcio Storico Fiorentino, to learn more about the political divisions that marked the city. Then, we'll cross Via delle Terme, where the Buondelmonti Tower stands. Here, we'll learn about the killing of Buondelmonte, a symbolic event that ignited the struggles between the Guelph and Ghibelline families, which marked Dante's political destiny. Walking from Via delle Terme to Via degli Apostoli, you'll pass under the evocative Church of the Holy Apostles, one of the oldest in Florence, shrouded in medieval legends and traditions. Then, you'll reach Ponte Vecchio, a commercial and symbolic crossroads, for a view of the Arno that helps you understand the economic power of medieval Florence. The tour continues to Piazza della Signoria, the center of the city's political power, and in front of Palazzo del Bargello, a key place in Florentine public life, where Dante played his political role. Here, we'll explore the reasons for his exile. The visit ends in the solemn Basilica of Santa Croce, a symbolic place of Italian memory, where Dante is celebrated even if he is not buried there: an ideal ending to understand how Florence first rejected and then mythologized its greatest poet. A tour designed for those who want to understand Dante through Florence, not just see it.

Includes

Guided walking tour of medieval Florence Your local guide, an expert on Florence and Dante Alighieri A historical and narrative account of Dante's life, work, and exile A themed itinerary through the city's churches, towers, and iconic landmarks Easy-to-understand and engaging explanations, suitable for everyone Your guide will be happy to answer any questions and provide further details during the tour

Excludes

Tickets to museums or monuments Food and drinks

Important Information

• The tour takes place entirely outdoors and is a walking tour. There are no entrances to the monuments, and the route is flat, suitable for everyone. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and bringing a bottle of water. The tour goes on even if it rains; however, in the event of particularly bad weather, the tour may be subject to changes or be canceled. In this case, customers can choose to receive a full refund. Please arrive at the meeting point a few minutes early.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund