Synagogue 10.5€ each; Accademia 20€ each, not included in the price of the tour.
Embark on a unique tour of Florence and delve into the rich history of its Jewish community alongside your private guide. This comprehensive exploration covers the city’s key highlights, including a visit to the local synagogue, a notable structure erected in the 19th century, complete with its museum.
Traverse Piazza del Duomo to admire the Gate of Paradise, adorned with Old Testament narratives, before exploring the former Jewish ghetto at Piazza della Repubblica.
Cross the Arno River to discover the site of Florence’s first synagogue and conclude your private tour in Piazza della Signoria, the governmental hub and former residence of the Medici family, shedding light on their connection with the Jewish community.
Start your unique journey at the Florence synagogue, a mid-1800s construction revered as one of Europe’s foremost Jewish buildings. Its striking exterior sets the tone for the captivating interior, characterized by Moorish-style frescoes, filtered light through stained glass windows, and a splendid mosaic. It is the only synagogue in Florence and it is the place of worship for Italian and Sephardic Jews.
The green copper dome, a prominent feature in the city skyline, symbolizes the restoration of liberty for Italian Jews. Your private guide will narrate the construction’s history, emphasizing its significance in the Italian Jewish community’s emancipation.
Within the synagogue, explore a small museum spanning two floors that traces the history of Florence’s Jewish community from its inception in 1437 to the present day. Your expert guide will illuminate the displays, featuring photographs, maps, and depictions of the destroyed ghetto and its old synagogue. Gain insights into the intriguing history of the new Temple’s design and construction, with showcased objects from the former Florence’s synagogues and private homes used during religious services.
A leisurely stroll from the synagogue brings you to the Galleria dell’Accademia, housing Michelangelo’s famed marble David. While the museum boasts Medieval and Renaissance art, neoclassical statues and musical instruments, your guide focuses the greatest master of Florence: Michelangelo. Marvel at the four Slaves and delve into the story behind this uncompleted funeral monument for Pope Julius II. What happened to the mausoleum of the Pope, that should be the most important commission of Michelangelo’s life? Let your private guide tell you the whole story!
Venture into the narrative surrounding the vanished mausoleum and relish the view of David, Michelangelo’s masterpiece.
Cross the Duomo area to reach Piazza della Repubblica, once the site of the ancient Jewish ghetto until its destruction in the late 19th century. Situated in the heart of the city, this district was destroyed during Italy’s unification in 1861. Florence, chosen as the second capital, underwent significant changes, including the establishment of a new life and a distinct temple for the Jewish community. As nothing is left of that past days, your guide plays a crucial role in resurrecting the memories of this bygone era.
From Piazza della Repubblica, you’ll go Oltrarno, where the very first synagogue existed in the Middle Ages, seeking remnants of a forgotten history.
Exploring the political epicenter of Florence, Piazza della Signoria, prompts curiosity about the government’s stance towards the city’s Jewish citizens. Your expert guide unveils the shared cultural and business ties between the early Medici and local Jews, pondering why the community was later confined to a ghetto. Surrounded by marvelous works of art in the square, such as the replica of Michelangelo’s David and Donatello’s Judith and Holofernes, your guide elucidates this captivating historical narrative.
Floe – Florence Local Experts
Via Laura, 38 – 50121 Florence (IT)
