My family just listened to this episode while exploring the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella. Despite it being peak season the church and grounds were empty (despite mobs of people near the other major sites). Unfortunately the fresco you describe was mostly obscured by a scaffold. That didn’t stop us from enjoying it however and your enthusiasm had my 12 year old asking an endless stream of questions! Everyone is very happy I suggested we stop here after listening to your episode a few months ago. Thank you!
Wow, Santa Maria Novella was empty?! I didn't think it would be crowded, but empty is a little depressing. I'm so thrilled to hear your daughter had her curiosity piqued! What kind of questions did she ask?
Lastly, we just concluded our tour with Elena. It was INCREDIBLE. My 14 year old said it was hands down the best thing we have done since arriving in Italy 10 days ago. We met several artisans and learned about their craft, watched paper marbling, had coffee in the Piazza Santo Spirito and sampled baked goods to name some of what we did. It was amazing. Thank you for connecting us and helping organize the tour!
That’s so great to hear. I woke up to a text from Elena thanking us for sending you as she had a wonderful time and appreciated your family’s passion and interest. ❤️
The questions about time required to paint a fresco, colours, facial expressions and several about the various interpretations of Christ on the cross we have seen through our travels. And yes, the basilica felt very private. The crowds all seem to remain around the cathedral, Uffizi and piazza della Signoria. Oltrarno is also much quieter than the other side of river.
Thank you for this episode! It left me inspired to have my young teens listen to get a detailed background on what to look for in the art and I’m for sure taking us to The Tornabuoni Chapel when we are in Florence this summer 🤍
Really appreciate your comments about this wine-window, panino plague. We had a college-age relative visit Florence last summer and she explained to us that she really didn't check out any of the museums as that wasn't her thing-- but recounted with great enthusiasm her visits to said wine-windows and sandwich shop. It really broke our hearts-- because of the lost opportunity for her and the damage done to the city by visits like that. You're ability to communicate the magic and relevance of these works of art is so valuable and so needed.
Thank you so much for this beautiful comment! It's upsetting how much social media closes the door to magic. I try to think of those Instagram moments like pilgrims' badges, and I understand the allure and the satisfaction of finding something on a sort of treasure map. But the complete disinterest in what's beyond that is disturbing.
Danielle this was a lovely episode. I love how you weave history and art together through your words. I listened to this yesterday and now coming on here to see the picture you described so perfectly.
This was so, so good - in detail and in the know tips on enjoying not only Florence in general, but appreciate the context of the art. I also like your candid opinions, much appreciated when you're not sure if people are just glazing everything. I just read Rachel Cusk's "The Last Supper" and I didn't really enjoy it, you bring the art to life in a most magical way, and you say it with infective admiration. Looking forward to more episodes, plus you should publish a book on Italian art and travel.
I enjoyed this episode, Danielle. We are staying at the il tornabuoni hotel in Florence. Is it just named after the family or do you know if it has any history to explore?
Thanks, Pam! There are a few hotels and b&bs around Florence named Tornabuoni. They were a large family with many residences and real estate holdings. Likely, the hotel has some connection to them, but only the one I discussed in the podcast was where the central family lived.
Pam - we are staying at the Il Tornabuoni (the Hyatt one) as well! Looking forward to it as the photos look beautiful. I had the same thought when I listened to this eposide.
So excited. I have so many places saved that are a short walk from the hotel. I suspect we won’t be at a loss for things to do. What month will you be there if you don’t mind me asking?
My family just listened to this episode while exploring the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella. Despite it being peak season the church and grounds were empty (despite mobs of people near the other major sites). Unfortunately the fresco you describe was mostly obscured by a scaffold. That didn’t stop us from enjoying it however and your enthusiasm had my 12 year old asking an endless stream of questions! Everyone is very happy I suggested we stop here after listening to your episode a few months ago. Thank you!
Wow, Santa Maria Novella was empty?! I didn't think it would be crowded, but empty is a little depressing. I'm so thrilled to hear your daughter had her curiosity piqued! What kind of questions did she ask?
Lastly, we just concluded our tour with Elena. It was INCREDIBLE. My 14 year old said it was hands down the best thing we have done since arriving in Italy 10 days ago. We met several artisans and learned about their craft, watched paper marbling, had coffee in the Piazza Santo Spirito and sampled baked goods to name some of what we did. It was amazing. Thank you for connecting us and helping organize the tour!
That’s so great to hear. I woke up to a text from Elena thanking us for sending you as she had a wonderful time and appreciated your family’s passion and interest. ❤️
The questions about time required to paint a fresco, colours, facial expressions and several about the various interpretations of Christ on the cross we have seen through our travels. And yes, the basilica felt very private. The crowds all seem to remain around the cathedral, Uffizi and piazza della Signoria. Oltrarno is also much quieter than the other side of river.
Thank you for this episode! It left me inspired to have my young teens listen to get a detailed background on what to look for in the art and I’m for sure taking us to The Tornabuoni Chapel when we are in Florence this summer 🤍
That’s fabulous, I love hearing this!
Really appreciate your comments about this wine-window, panino plague. We had a college-age relative visit Florence last summer and she explained to us that she really didn't check out any of the museums as that wasn't her thing-- but recounted with great enthusiasm her visits to said wine-windows and sandwich shop. It really broke our hearts-- because of the lost opportunity for her and the damage done to the city by visits like that. You're ability to communicate the magic and relevance of these works of art is so valuable and so needed.
Thank you so much for this beautiful comment! It's upsetting how much social media closes the door to magic. I try to think of those Instagram moments like pilgrims' badges, and I understand the allure and the satisfaction of finding something on a sort of treasure map. But the complete disinterest in what's beyond that is disturbing.
Danielle this was a lovely episode. I love how you weave history and art together through your words. I listened to this yesterday and now coming on here to see the picture you described so perfectly.
Thank you!
This was so, so good - in detail and in the know tips on enjoying not only Florence in general, but appreciate the context of the art. I also like your candid opinions, much appreciated when you're not sure if people are just glazing everything. I just read Rachel Cusk's "The Last Supper" and I didn't really enjoy it, you bring the art to life in a most magical way, and you say it with infective admiration. Looking forward to more episodes, plus you should publish a book on Italian art and travel.
Thanks Carmen! I haven't read that book, but I was curious about it, so thanks for sharing that. I've got a book proposal in the works. ;)
I love that, please keep us posted! <3
Love this episode! I will stand in front of Ludovica Tornabuoni this April and think of your story!
I am planning in buying local artisan work, so no worries there.
I need your recommnedation for a goldsmith, my husband and I would like to make matching gold rings to celbrate 42 years of mariage
I enjoyed this episode, Danielle. We are staying at the il tornabuoni hotel in Florence. Is it just named after the family or do you know if it has any history to explore?
Thanks, Pam! There are a few hotels and b&bs around Florence named Tornabuoni. They were a large family with many residences and real estate holdings. Likely, the hotel has some connection to them, but only the one I discussed in the podcast was where the central family lived.
Pam - we are staying at the Il Tornabuoni (the Hyatt one) as well! Looking forward to it as the photos look beautiful. I had the same thought when I listened to this eposide.
So excited. I have so many places saved that are a short walk from the hotel. I suspect we won’t be at a loss for things to do. What month will you be there if you don’t mind me asking?
I’m not sure. I only joined Substack because of Danielle’s podcast. 🤣 it’s still sp new to me. I’m on insta as ctg8tr if it’s easier to chat there.
Found you and have requested to follow. We have 3 states in common!! NC, FL and SC!!
Same. I’ve no clue how to use it properly. I’ll look for you on instagram.
Beginning of August! We will have to share tips!
We are beginning of April. I can report in. Are we able to direct message?