Florence

Florence (Firenze) is the capital of Italy's Tuscany region. From 1865 until 1870 it was also the capital of the Kingdom of Italy and is an important part of Italian cultural and political history.

The city lies on the Arno river and was founded as a roman colony in 59 BC but emerged as a powerhouse in the 13th century when wool and textiles along with a powerful banking system turned it into a leading power.

A center of medieval European trade and finance, the city is often considered the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance and was long ruled by the Medici family. Florence is also famous for its fine art and architecture. It is said that of the 1000 most important European artists of the second millennium, 350 lived or worked in Florence including Dante, Petrach, Machiavelli, Botticelli and Michelangelo.

For those who aren't very interested in the arts, take a walk to Piazzale Michelangelo where you will find a breathtaking view of the flowing Arno river, the Santa Maria del Fiore cathedral and the Tuscan terracotta rooftop tiles, typical of the region.
Monastery Stays are a chance to experience a true slice of Italian life - warm hospitality as the guest of monks or nuns. This bed and breakfast accommodation will leave you with a lasting holiday memory of Florence. Peaceful and welcoming to all, monastery and convent guest houses in Florence have long provided hospitality, yet been notoriously difficult to book, Monastery Stays opens the door to travellers from around the world, with assured reservations and support. Book your stay in a monastery or convent in Florence.