Description
A walking tour on the other side of the Arno River with majestic palaces, medieval towers, and Renaissance grandeur.
Come on a walk through the quarter known as Oltrarno, whose name literally means “beyond the Arno”. For centuries this part of town has been known for its imposing palaces, delightful gardens, and Medieval towers, but also for its artisan workshops, antique dealers, and wine bars. I will take you to its landmark sites to discover the history of its characteristic streets and its inhabitants. The itinerary begins at the Ponte Vecchio, the city’s oldest bridge. From there the tour continues on to Borgo San Jacopo where striking tower houses, traces of the city’s medieval past, can still be seen. Then we will continue onto Via Maggio, one of the broadest streets in the city, it became the main axis between Oltrarno and the center of the city when the Medici moved their court to the nearby Pitti Palace. The next stop on the tour is the church of Santo Spirito, a Renaissance masterpiece originally designed by Filippo Brunelleschi. It is one of the most beautiful architectural monuments of Florence that can be enjoyed without the busy crowds of tourists. The tour then ends at the monumental Palazzo Pitti. The palace was once the residence of the most prestigious ruling families of both the city and Italy, such as the Medici and Lorraine grand dukes as well as the Savoy kings.
Duration: 2 hours
Please note: The tour includes entrance inside a church. Please have clothing to cover your shoulders and knees.
