If you’re seeking a brief history of Florence to prepare for your visit, look no further. Known as the Cradle of the Renaissance, Florence is a captivating city that left an indelible mark on art, culture, and politics. With its rich history spanning nearly 3,000 years, Florence traces its origins back to 59 B.C. as … Read more
Donatello, born Donato di Nicolo di Betto Bardi, was the most influential and innovative sculptor of the 15th century. He essentially invented Renaissance sculpture and had a profound effect on Michelangelo and later generations of Renaissance artists. Donatello moved away from Gothic depictions and re-introduced elements from classical Greco-Roman sculpture, which he had studied in … Read more
Are you planning a trip to Florence, Italy? With so many incredible sights to see, you might be wondering if Casa Buonarroti is worth adding to your itinerary. Let me tell you, it absolutely is! Casa Buonarroti is a hidden gem among Florence’s museums. Once owned by Michelangelo Buonarroti, the famous Renaissance artist, this property … Read more
Here’s my guide to the 16 most beautiful churches in Florence Italy. These church are some of the most stunning attractions in Florence, perfect for art lovers. When it comes to art and architecture, Florence is a powerhouse. Florence is home to some of the world’s most beautiful churches from the Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance … Read more
Giorgio Vasari was a renowned Florentine architect, artist, and art historian who left an indelible mark on the High Renaissance era. His influence on the world of art and architecture is immeasurable. Vasari’s most famous work is his book, The Lives of the Most Excellent Painters, Sculptors, and Architects. It established him as the world’s … Read more
The Baptistery of St. John is remarkable! It sits in front of the main facade of Florence Cathedral. Dating from 1059, the Baptistery is over a thousand years old. Incredibly ancient, especially compared to American standards. The only other structure this old in Florence is the Church of San Miniato al Monte. To locals, the … Read more
Looking for a history of the Medici family? You’ve come to the right place! You may have seen the Medici drama on Netflix. But the real history of this powerful Florentine family is even more fascinating! The Medici family of Florence holds a prominent place in history as the unrivaled dynasty of the Renaissance period. … Read more
“My illustrious lordship, I’ll show you what a woman can do.” — Artemisia Gentileschi to her art patron Don Antonio Ruggo Here’s my guide to the compelling life of Italian Baroque painter Artemisia Gentileschi and her most important masterpieces. I bet you’ve never heard of Artemisia Gentileschi, am I right? She was one of the … Read more
Piero della Francesca’s magnificent fresco cycle, The Legend of the True Cross, is located in the lovely little Tuscan town of Arezzo, in the three story main chapel of the Basilica of San Francesco. The frescos are one of the greatest and most beautiful fresco cycles from the early Renaissance. Some art historians believe Piero’s … Read more
Obsessed with the sublime Leonardo da Vinci? Welcome to the club. So is much of society, judging from the lines to view the tourist-industry-gold Mona Lisa at the Louvre. In this Leonardo guide, I give you an overview of Leonardo’s life. And I take you on a tour of his entire body of paintings — … Read more