My favorite church is Santa Croce in Florence, Italy. I used to stay with family nearby and go to Mass or tour the church or the leather factory. It is the largest Franciscan church in the world with a fascinating history.
Three works of art there make my heart stop. One is the wooden Donatello crucifix. But the Donatello Annunciation is my passion. Don’t mind me, the frescoes of St. Francis and so many other historic references are right here in this church. Michelangelo, Dante, and more.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Basilica_di_Santa_Croce_di_Firenze
Cimabue’s altarpiece was severely damaged by the 1966 flood of the Arno river.
The Pazzi chapel is also a treasure due to its architectural structure and della Robia art.
Don’t miss anything in Florence! OK, do miss something so you can return. Dee
A real plus is that La Maremma is a few doors from the Piazza. I think I’ve been to that restaurant the most in my many visits to Florence. The stuffed ravioli with sage butter is inspiration on a plate.
Fagiole is another favorite, with fagiole a l’usigniole (beans in the style of nightingales) with a tomato sauce and sausage.
I ‘ce Ce Ce has a divine salmon with frites, and I love spinaci with garlic. All these great places are in the neighborhood.