Florence’s 8 historic squares to discover
Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, Florence reveals its most precious treasures through its emblematic historic squares. Cradle of the Renaissance, the city of the arts reveals centuries of history, art and culture in each of its piazzas. From Brunelleschi’s masterpieces to Michelangelo’s statues and the Medici palaces, these public spaces tell the story of the Florentine epic. Discover the 8 historic squares that make Florence such a unique destination.
1. Piazza del Duomo: the spiritual heart of Florence
Piazza del Duomo (Piazza del Duomo, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy, rated 4.6/5 on Google out of 50,000 reviews) is the spiritual and artistic centre of Florence. This majestic square is home to the cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, with its revolutionary dome designed by Brunelleschi, a true masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Giotto’s campanile, an elegant 84-metre tower, stands alongside the Baptistery of San Giovanni, one of the city’s oldest buildings.
The architectural harmony of this historic square is a testament to Florentine grandeur. Brunelleschi’s dome, 43 metres in diameter, marks the advent of Renaissance architecture and remains an unrivalled feat of engineering. The polychrome facades in white, green and pink marble create an ensemble of striking beauty, making this piazza one of the most photographed in the world.
See also the Florence guide:
- Top 10 culinary specialities in Florence
- Top 7 things to do in Florence
- What are the best hotels in Florence?
- Boboli Gardens in Florence
2. Piazza della Signoria: Florentine political power
A veritable open-air museum, the Piazza della Signoria (Piazza della Signoria, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy, rated 4.7/5 on Google out of 25,000 reviews) has been the political and cultural heart of Florence since the Middle Ages. Dominated by the imposing Palazzo Vecchio with its 94-metre tower, this historic square is home to an exceptional artistic heritage.
The Loggia dei Lanzi is home to some remarkable sculptures, while Bartolomeo Ammannati’s Fountain of Neptune sits majestically in the centre. A copy of Michelangelo’s David marks the original location of this emblematic work. This piazza bears witness to the power of the Medici and the golden age of the Florentine Republic, taking visitors on a journey through centuries of art and history.
Download the audio-guided tour to discover Florence on foot and on your own
Explore Florence’s historic squares with our interactive audio tour. 25 points of interest will guide you through the treasures of the Renaissance, from captivating anecdotes to the best-kept secrets of the city of the arts. Let Navaway guide you for an authentic and enriching discovery.
3. Piazza Santa Croce: Franciscan elegance
Piazza Santa Croce (Piazza Santa Croce, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy, rated 4.5/5 on Google out of 15,000 reviews) stretches out in front of the largest Franciscan church in the world. This historic Florence square is home to the Basilica of Santa Croce, a Renaissance pantheon housing the tombs of Michelangelo, Galileo and Machiavelli.
The Gothic architecture of the basilica contrasts harmoniously with the Renaissance palaces that line the square. The Palazzo Cocchi-Serristori and the Palazzo dell’Antella bear witness to the wealth of Florentine families. Traditionally, this piazza is home to Calcio Storico, the forerunner of modern football, perpetuating medieval sporting traditions. Visitors can also discover Giotto’s frescoes in the basilica’s chapels, veritable gems of religious art.
4. Piazza della Repubblica: the resurrected Roman forum
Created when Florence became the capital of Italy (1865-1871), Piazza della Repubblica (Piazza della Repubblica, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy, rated 4.2/5 on Google out of 8,000 reviews) occupies the site of the old Roman forum. This historic square symbolises Florence’s urban renaissance in the 19th century.
The Column of Plenty sits in the centre, adorned with a copy of Donatello’s sculpture of a woman holding a cornucopia. The triumphal arch erected in 1895 celebrates Italian unification. Historic cafés such as the Giubbe Rosse were frequented by intellectuals and artists in the early 20th century. The Belle Époque carousel adds a nostalgic note to this modern piazza, creating a striking contrast with the age of Florence’s other historic squares.
5. Piazza San Lorenzo: the Medici mausoleum
At the heart of the traditional Florentine market, Piazza San Lorenzo (Piazza San Lorenzo, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy, rated 4.3/5 on Google out of 12,000 reviews) is home to Florence’s first cathedral. This historic square bears witness to the power of the Medici family through the Basilica of San Lorenzo and its funerary chapels.
The basilica, consecrated in 393 by Saint Ambrose, was completely redesigned by Brunelleschi and Michelangelo in the 15th century. It houses the tombs of 49 members of the Medici dynasty, making it a veritable family pantheon. The San Lorenzo market brings the square to life every day, perpetuating a centuries-old commercial tradition. Stalls selling local crafts rub shoulders with authentic trattorias, offering an immersion in contemporary Florentine life as you contemplate these Renaissance treasures.
6. Piazza Santa Maria Novella: Dominican harmony
An oasis of tranquillity near the central station, Piazza Santa Maria Novella (Piazza Santa Maria Novella, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy, rated 4.4/5 on Google out of 9,000 reviews) blossoms in front of the elegant basilica of the same name. This historic Florence square is a perfect example of Tuscan Gothic art, with its geometric facade in polychrome marble.
Once the scene of chariot races, the square still features the obelisks that marked the bends in the track. The interior of the basilica is a treasure trove of art: Masaccio’s Trinity, the frescoes of the Triumph of the Dominican Order and Brunelleschi’s Crucifix. The Green Cloister, decorated by Paolo Uccello, completes this remarkable ensemble. This piazza offers visitors a moment of artistic and spiritual contemplation, far from the tourist hustle and bustle of the more central squares.
7. Piazza Santo Spirito: the artisan soul of Oltrarno
In the bohemian Oltrarno district, Piazza Santo Spirito (Piazza Santo Spirito, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy, rated 4.6/5 on Google out of 5,500 reviews) reveals Florentine authenticity far from the traditional tourist circuits. This historic square is the hub of Florentine daily life, with its Renaissance basilica and craftsmen’s workshops.
The Basilica of Santo Spirito, Brunelleschi’s last work, has a deliberately simple façade that contrasts with the richness of its interior. La Fierucola organic market is held every third Sunday of the month, celebrating local produce and traditional crafts. In the evening, the piazza comes alive with a relaxed nightlife of natural wine bars and family-run trattorias. The workshops of goldsmiths, leatherworkers and restaurateurs perpetuate Florentine craft traditions, making this piazza a living laboratory for the arts and crafts.
8. Piazza della Santissima Annunziata: Renaissance perfection
A little-known architectural gem, the Piazza della Santissima Annunziata (Piazza della Santissima Annunziata, 50121 Firenze FI, Italy, rated 4.5/5 on Google out of 3,000 reviews) exemplifies the aesthetic ideals of the Renaissance. This harmonious historic square features porticoes on three sides, creating a remarkable architectural unity.
The Ospedale degli Innocenti, Europe’s first orphanage, designed by Brunelleschi in 1419, revolutionises hospital architecture with its elegant arcades. The Basilica della Santissima Annunziata, a venerated Marian shrine, completes the ensemble with its Renaissance portico. The equestrian statue of Ferdinand I de’ Medici by Giambologna majestically dominates the space. This piazza is a perfect illustration of the stylistic harmony sought by Renaissance architects, offering a model of urban planning that still inspires today. Let us guide you on your visit to Florence to discover these architectural subtleties.
In conclusion, these 8 historic piazzas of Florence offer a captivating journey through five centuries of art, history and culture. From the spirituality of the Piazza del Duomo to the authenticity of Santo Spirito, each piazza reveals a unique facet of the Florentine soul. These public spaces, witness to urban and artistic transformations, are the living heritage of the Renaissance city. For a complete and enriching discovery, follow our audioguided itinerary that will reveal all the secrets of these emblematic places during your next Tuscan getaway.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most beautiful historic square in Florence?
The Piazza della Signoria is generally considered the most spectacular, with its Renaissance statues and Palazzo Vecchio. However, the Piazza del Duomo impresses with its spiritual grandeur, while the Piazza della Santissima Annunziata captivates with its perfect architectural harmony.
How long does it take to visit all these historic places?
Allow a full day to discover Florence’s 8 historic squares at a leisurely pace. Our Navaway audioguided tour will take you 7.8 km in 3 hours 10 minutes, including time to stop and contemplate the sights.
Is it possible to visit the interior of the monuments in these squares?
Yes, most of the basilicas are accessible free of charge (Santa Croce, Santo Spirito, Santa Maria Novella). Admission tickets are required for the Duomo and its monuments, the Medici chapels and the museums. Book in advance, especially in high season.
When is the best time to discover these historic places?
Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer ideal conditions: mild weather, fewer crowds and perfect light for admiring the Renaissance architecture. If possible, avoid July and August, as the squares are very busy and the heat is intense.
200 audioguided tours for cities all around the world
Download
