Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of the Hospital of the Innocents, Europe’s first orphanage, on a guided tour through Florence. Over 1.5 hours, you’ll explore the poignant stories of the children cared for in this remarkable institution, designed by the renowned Brunelleschi. This tour, available in multiple languages and wheelchair accessible, offers a unique perspective on Florentine art and history, featuring renowned works by artists like Botticelli. With a high customer rating, it’s a journey through time you won’t want to miss.
Key Points
- The Hospital of the Innocents in Florence offers a 1.5-hour guided tour available in multiple languages, priced from $166.56 per person.
- The tour starts at the Equestrian Monument of Ferdinando I de Medici and includes a 75-minute guided exploration of the restored interior of the Hospital of the Innocents.
- Highlights of the tour include learning about the history of Europe’s first orphanage, discovering Brunelleschi’s architectural innovations, and viewing paintings and sculptures by renowned Florentine artists.
- Visitors can also explore the Museum of the Innocents, which features expanded exhibition space, personal memories of the orphanage’s children, and a rich history of the iconic institution.
- The guided tour has received excellent reviews, with praise for the knowledgeable guides and the unique opportunity to immerse in the history and stories of the Hospital of the Innocents.
Tour Overview
This guided tour of the Hospital of the Innocents in Florence offers visitors a comprehensive look into the history and architecture of this renowned 15th-century orphanage.
Priced from $166.56 per person, the 1.5-hour tour is available in English, Spanish, Italian, German, and French. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and a private group option is available.
Visitors can reserve their spot and pay later, and free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours in advance. The tour starts and ends at the Equestrian Monument of Ferdinando I de Medici, with the main focus being a 75-minute guided tour of the Hospital of the Innocents.
Itinerary
The tour begins at the Equestrian Monument of Ferdinando I de Medici in Piazza della Santissima Annunziata, where visitors spend 15 minutes.
They then embark on a 75-minute guided tour of the Hospital of the Innocents.
The tour highlights include:
Exploring the restored interior and imagining life centuries ago, viewing renowned Florentine art, and hearing stories of the orphanage’s children.
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Exploring the restored interior and imagining life centuries ago
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Viewing paintings and sculptures by renowned Florentine artists
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Hearing stories of the children cared for at the orphanage
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Returning to the starting location at the Equestrian Monument
Highlights
A key highlight of the guided tour is the opportunity to learn about the history of the Spedale degli Innocenti, Europe’s first orphanage. Visitors will discover the architectural innovations of Brunelleschi, completed in 1419. They’ll explore the restored interior and imagine life centuries ago, while viewing paintings and sculptures by renowned Florentine artists. Hear stories of the children cared for at the orphanage.
| Highlights |
|————|
| Learn about the history of Spedale degli Innocenti, Europe’s first orphanage |
| Discover the architectural innovations of Brunelleschi, completed in 1419 |
| Explore the restored interior and imagine life centuries ago |
| View paintings and sculptures by renowned Florentine artists |
| Hear stories of the children cared for at the orphanage |
Museum Experience
Visitors to the Hospital of the Innocents can explore the Museum of the Innocents, which features expanded exhibition space across three levels.
The museum offers a unique experience, allowing visitors to:
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Walk the 600-year-old path and discover tales of hope and tragedy
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Peruse personal memories of the nocentini, detailing the lives of children from the 15th to 17th century
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Explore the gallery showcasing works by renowned Florentine artists like Botticelli and Ghirlandaio
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Immerse themselves in the rich history and stories of the iconic orphanage.
Architectural Innovations
Though designed in the early 15th century, the Hospital of the Innocents showcases Brunelleschi’s architectural innovations that were ahead of their time.
The building’s iconic arched loggia, with its simple yet elegant columns, exemplifies Brunelleschi’s pioneering use of classical proportions. The façade’s symmetry and harmonious organization reflect the Renaissance principles of balance and order.
The arched loggia with its elegant columns exemplifies Brunelleschi’s pioneering use of classical proportions and the Renaissance principles of balance and order.
Inside, the carefully planned layout and ample natural light create a serene, welcoming environment.
Brunelleschi’s innovative design made the Hospital of the Innocents a groundbreaking institution that provided care and sanctuary for centuries. Its architectural legacy continues to impress and inspire visitors today.
Florentine Artwork
Beyond Brunelleschi’s architectural innovations, the Hospital of the Innocents houses an impressive collection of Florentine artwork.
Visitors can expect to:
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View paintings and sculptures by renowned Florentine artists like Botticelli and Ghirlandaio
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Explore the museum gallery showcasing the artistic works that once adorned the hospital’s interiors
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Discover personal memories of the nocentini, the children cared for at the orphanage, through evocative artworks from the 15th-17th centuries
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Gain insight into the lives and stories of the orphans, as told through the artistic expressions of the era.
Childcare and History
As Europe’s first orphanage, the Hospital of the Innocents played a pivotal role in shaping the care and education of abandoned children. Founded in 1419, this pioneering institution provided shelter, food, and vocational training to thousands of youths over the centuries.
Guided tours offer a glimpse into the lives of the "nocentini," as the children were known. Visitors can explore the restored interiors, view artwork depicting their stories, and learn how the hospital’s design innovations influenced childcare practices.
The museum’s exhibits further illuminate the joys and tragedies experienced by these historical wards of the state.
Customer Feedback
Visitors have overwhelmingly praised the guided tour of the Hospital of the Innocents, as evidenced by its stellar 4.9/5 rating based on 7 reviews.
Customers highlight:
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Excellent, knowledgeable guides who bring the history to life
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A fascinating, unique experience beyond typical Florentine attractions
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Friendly, considerate service throughout the tour
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The opportunity to explore the restored 600-year-old interior and learn about the orphanage’s past
Reviewers consistently recommend the tour as an engaging and informative way to discover this architectural masterpiece and its remarkable history.
The Sum Up
The Hospital of the Innocents tour offers a unique glimpse into Florence’s rich history and artistic heritage. Visitors can explore the stunning Brunelleschi-designed architecture, discover renowned Florentine artwork, and learn about the poignant stories of the children cared for in Europe’s first orphanage. With high customer ratings, this accessible tour provides a memorable and insightful experience for those interested in Florentine art and history.
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