Florence - Art History School trip

Day 1 - Fly to Pisa, the Leaning Tower of Pisa en-route, Florence city walk

Begin your journey in Pisa with a visit to the iconic Leaning Tower. Capture creative photos and appreciate the architectural ingenuity before transferring to Florence.

Settle into your accommodation before embarking on an introductory Renaissance art history tour. With an expert guide, visit a city where the streets and buildings have remained largely unchanged since the Renaissance. Visit Piazza della Signoria, the political and artistic heart of the city, where statues in the Loggia dei Lanzi depict key historical and mythological figures, offering insights into Florence’s civic pride and artistic heritage.

Take in Florence Cathedral and Baptistery: Analyse the influence of the Gates of Paradise—the Baptistery’s bronze doors—on Renaissance art, focusing on the intricate iconography that depicts scenes from the Old Testament. The doors are a key example of the transition from Gothic to Renaissance art, demonstrating advances in perspective and naturalism. Finally today, stop at Orsanmichele. Originally a grain market, this church is adorned with statues by Donatello, Ghiberti, and Verrocchio, representing Florence’s guilds. It exemplifies the relationship between art, commerce, and religion in Renaissance Florence.

This evening, enjoy a relaxing dinner and prepare for the days ahead, rich with art history exploration.

Day 2 - Guided Walking Tour of Florence, Uffizi Gallery

This morning, meet your guide in the lobby. They will tell you the stories behind the sights to help you gain a deeper understanding of Florence's development.

Begin with a return to Il Duomo and climb Brunelleschi’s Dome, a masterpiece of Renaissance engineering. From the top, students can view the cityscape and discuss the historical context in which Florence's iconic landmarks were created, emphasising the Medici family's influence on art and architecture. Next, visit the Basilica of Santa Croce, the burial place of Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli, to discuss their contributions to art. Continue to Basilica Santa Maria Novella, where students can study frescoes by Masaccio, Ghirlandaio, and Lippi, analysing the development of perspective and humanism in art. It’s an excellent example of how churches were used as canvases for religious art, helping to convey theological messages to the public. Be sure to see Ospedale degli Innocenti. Designed by Brunelleschi, this orphanage is an early example of Renaissance architecture. It features terracotta medallions by Andrea della Robbia, representing the integration of architecture and social services, reflecting the humanist ideals of the Renaissance.

In the afternoon, visit the Uffizi Gallery, designed by Giorgio Vasari and home to an exceptional collection of ancient sculptures and paintings from the Middle Ages to modern history. It offers a comprehensive view of the evolution of Renaissance art, showcasing the shift from medieval to Renaissance aesthetics. Renaissance masterpieces shown here include works by Giotto, Botticelli, Caravaggio, and Michelangelo. Discuss how these works reflect the cultural and intellectual currents of their time and their enduring influence on Western art.

This evening, dine in a local trattoria, reflecting on the day’s artistic discoveries.

Day 3 - Accademia Gallery, Palazzo Vecchio, Bargello National Museum

Today, start with a visit to the Accademia Gallery, which displays the largest number of Michelangelo's sculptures in the world, including the world-renowned David. Examine how Michelangelo’s work revolutionised the depiction of the human form. This seminal work embodies the ideals of Renaissance humanism and the celebration of the human form. The Accademia also offers works by Italian Renaissance artists such as Domenico Ghirlandaio, Pontormo, Sandro Botticelli, and Andrea del Sarto, who developed new artistic techniques and themes.

Continue to Palazzo Vecchio, Florence's historic town hall. Palazzo Vecchio is a symbol of Florence’s political power and offers insights into the intersection of art and politics during the Renaissance, as well as the role of public art in civic life. Discuss how art was used to communicate political messages and reinforce the Medici’s authority.

Next, visit the Bargello National Museum, which houses a significant collection of Renaissance sculptures, including Donatello’s bronze David. Here, students can explore how sculptors used their medium to express complex political, religious, and social themes.

Conclude the day at Piazzale Michelangelo, a terrace offering a breathtaking panoramic view of Florence. This spot is ideal for reflecting on the architectural harmony of the city and the visual impact of its artistic heritage. Enjoy dinner in the city.

Day 4 - Free Time, Fly Home

After check-out, spend your final morning exploring Florence at your own pace. Consider visiting the San Lorenzo Market to experience Florence’s vibrant local culture. For those with more time, the Medici Riccardi Palace offers an intimate look at the Medici family’s contributions to the arts and the nature of patron-client relationships. Or, cross the Arno to visit Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens. Once the residence of the Medici family, it offers a glimpse into the lifestyle of the Medici and the role of art in asserting power and status. The Pitti Palace now houses several museums, including the Palatine Gallery with works by Raphael, Titian, and Rubens. The adjacent Boboli Gardens are a prime example of Renaissance garden design.

Transfer to the airport for your departure after an incredible Art History school trip to Florence, carrying with you a deeper appreciation of Florence’s pivotal role in shaping the history of art.