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Discover Jewish Florence
Artful Jewish Florence
Photo: Giulia Pines

Florence is synonymous with the beauty and majesty of Italy and Jews have lived here already in the 13th century. Known as The Athens of the Middle Ages the story of Florence is the story the Medicis – and Jewish history is intertwined with this powerful and famous Italian family. Today the congregation numbers about 1,000 and is the third largest in Italy after Rome and Milan. We will look at preserved Renaissance palaces, visit a museum housed in an ex-convent, linger in small lanes, walk along the River Arno and marvel at its beauty, all the while exploring the Jewish presence in the city intimately. 

Photo: Giulia Pines
Florence Building
The core of Jewish life in Florence established itself on the south bank of the river in the area called via dei Giudei, ‘Street of the Jews‘. There were no social or economic restrictions on Jewish people, and their businesses flourished in the city. The Medici ruler and humanist Lorenzo the Magnificent invited Sephardic Jews to settle in Florence in the 15th century with hopes of developing international trade and banking in the city state. Although the Jews of Florence lived relatively well compared to other places in Italy and Europe, they were still separated in a ghetto. We will visit the former ghetto, established in the 16th century.

The spectacular turquoise copper dome of the Temple of Florence shines over the bright clear sky of this city. This beautiful 19th century synagogue built in the then most fashionable Moorish style, hosts a Jewish Museum and is the current seat of the local Jewish Community.

One of the most famous pieces of Jewish-themed art dominates the city - Michelangelo’s David. On our tour we will focus on the Jewish Heritage of Florence, but will not miss out on the larger picture - the impact of Florence on the world’s cultural and artistic legacy. 


Tour Options

3 hour walking tour, Jewish Florence

4 hour walking tour, Jewish Florence

Please see the "Discover Europe" section of our website for further tour options in Florence.