Florence: LGBTQ Renaissance Walking Tour With Mila

Join Mila as she leads a captivating 2-hour journey through Florence’s Medieval Gay District. This wheelchair-accessible tour explores the city’s rich LGBTQ history, uncovering stories of struggle and triumph. From Piazza della Repubblica to Ponte Vecchio, you’ll explore the role of the Medici family and the Church’s influence on the community. With insightful commentary, this tour promises an enlightening experience for anyone interested in uncovering Florence’s hidden LGBTQ past.

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Key Points

Guided walking tour focusing on the LGBTQ history of Florence, including the Medieval Gay District and landmarks like Piazza della Repubblica and Ponte Vecchio.
Exploration of the complex LGBTQ history in Florence, from harsh sodomy punishments to gradual legal shifts and the influential Medici figure Gian Gastone.
Tour led by local guide Mila, providing unique insights and perspectives on the LGBTQ heritage of the city.
Convenient meeting point at Piazza della Repubblica, with a tour duration of 2 hours and available in English.
Highly rated tour with positive reviews on guide quality, value for money, and customer enthusiasm for the LGBTQ-focused experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Florence: LGBTQ Renaissance Walking Tour with Mila is priced from Kč 626 per person and lasts for 2 hours.

The Florence: LGBTQ Renaissance Walking Tour with Mila is priced from Kč 626 per person and lasts for 2 hours.

It’s conducted in English and is wheelchair accessible.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now and pay later option is available.

Participants will explore Florence’s Medieval Gay District with local guide Mila, visiting landmarks like Piazza della Repubblica, Ponte Vecchio, and Piazza dei Signori.

They’ll learn about the history of the LGBTQ community in Florence, including punishments for sodomy and the significance of the last male Medici.

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Highlights and Itinerary

On the LGBTQ Renaissance Walking Tour, you will explore the Medieval Gay District of Florence with local guide Mila.

The tour highlights key landmarks, including:

Piazza della Repubblica
Ponte Vecchio, known for its connection to the queer community
Pitti Palace Square, focusing on the Medici family
Piazza dei Signori, featuring Cellini’s Perseus with the Head of Medusa

Participants will learn about the history of the LGBTQ community in Florence, including punishments for sodomy and changes in laws over centuries.

They’ll also discover the significance of Gian Gastone, the last male Medici, in LGBTQ history, and hear stories about the Church’s role in denouncing LGBTQ individuals.

Meeting Point

Participants on the LGBTQ Renaissance Walking Tour meet Mila at the Piazza della Repubblica, next to the Hard Rock Café under the Loggia. Mila will have a sign, making it easy to identify her.

The Piazza della Repubblica is a central square in Florence, known for its historical significance and lively atmosphere. It serves as the convenient starting point for the tour, allowing participants to enjoy the city’s rich LGBTQ heritage from the very beginning.

With Mila’s guidance, the group will embark on an enlightening journey through Florence’s past, uncovering the stories and landmarks integral to the LGBTQ community.

Customer Reviews

According to the reviews, participants have consistently praised the Florence: LGBTQ Renaissance Walking Tour with Mila.

The tour has an overall rating of 4.8/5 based on 59 reviews. The highlights include:

Guide Rating: 5/5
Value for Money: 4.9/5
Traveler feedback praising Mila’s storytelling and the unique LGBTQ history perspective
Expressions of enthusiasm to participate in the tour again

Reviewers appreciated Mila’s passion for LGBTQ+ history and the excitement it generated for further exploration of Florence’s queer past.

The tour is regarded as informative and engaging, providing a fresh look at the city’s Renaissance era.

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The LGBTQ History of Florence

Florence has a rich and complex LGBTQ history spanning centuries.

From harsh punishments for sodomy to gradual shifts in laws and attitudes, the city has witnessed dramatic changes in its treatment of the queer community.

One key figure is Gian Gastone, the last male Medici, whose rumored same-sex relationships challenged societal norms.

The Catholic Church also played a notorious role, frequently denouncing and persecuting LGBTQ individuals.

Yet, Florence’s medieval "Gay District" and the Ponte Vecchio’s connection to the queer community showcase the city’s vibrant LGBTQ past.

Today, this tour provides an eye-opening exploration of this pivotal history.

There's plenty more to explore in Florence

The Medici Family and LGBTQ Figures

While the powerful Medici family played a significant role in Florence’s Renaissance, some members were known to have had same-sex relationships, challenging traditional gender norms.

The last male Medici, Gian Gastone, was openly gay and maintained a close relationship with his chamberlain.

Gian Gastone, the last male Medici, was openly gay and maintained a close relationship with his chamberlain.

The Medici family’s influence also extended to the Church, which played a complex role in denouncing LGBTQ individuals over the centuries.

Highlights of the tour include:

Exploring the Medici family’s legacy and their connection to LGBTQ history.
Discovering the significance of Gian Gastone in LGBTQ Renaissance history.
Understanding the Church’s shifting stance on LGBTQ individuals.
Gaining insights into the challenges faced by the LGBTQ community in Florence’s past.

The Role of the Church

Though the Church played a complex role in denouncing LGBTQ individuals over the centuries, it also held significant influence over the Medici family and Florence’s society.

Tour guide Mila shares insight into the Church’s influence, noting its power to punish those accused of sodomy. She highlights how the Church’s denunciation of LGBTQ people impacted their lives and forced many to conceal their identities.

Yet, the Church’s close ties to the Medicis granted it sway over the city’s affairs. Mila’s tour sheds light on this nuanced history, giving participants a deeper understanding of the Church’s complex role in Florence’s LGBTQ past.

What to Expect on the Tour

Participants can expect an engaging and informative walking tour led by the passionate local guide, Mila. The 2-hour experience explores Florence’s medieval gay district, visiting key landmarks like Piazza della Repubblica, Ponte Vecchio, Pitti Palace Square, and Piazza dei Signori.

Highlights include:

Learning about the history of the LGBTQ community in Florence, including punishments for sodomy and changes in laws over the centuries.
Discovering the significance of Gian Gastone, the last male Medici, in LGBTQ history.
Hearing stories about the Church’s role in denouncing LGBTQ individuals.
Engaging with Mila’s passion for LGBTQ+ history and exploring the city through this unique lens.

Common Questions

Can We Stop for Refreshments During the Tour?

The tour does not mention any scheduled stops for refreshments. However, participants may have the opportunity to purchase snacks or drinks during the 2-hour walking tour at their own discretion and expense.

What Should I Wear to Be Comfortable During the Walking Tour?

You’ll want to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and shoes for the walking tour. Layering is recommended in case of changes in temperature or weather. Bring any necessary medications and stay hydrated throughout the experience.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is generally allowed during the tour. However, guests should be respectful and avoid disturbing the guide or other participants. It’s best to check with the tour provider for any specific photography guidelines or restrictions.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

The tour does not allow pets. It’s designed for walking and exploring, so bringing animals would not be permitted. The tour is focused on providing an informative and engaging experience for participants.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

No, according to the tour overview, the standard tour duration is 2 hours. There’s no mention of an option to extend the tour length. The tour appears to have a fixed schedule and itinerary.

The Sum Up

The "Florence: LGBTQ Renaissance Walking Tour" offers a captivating exploration of the city’s rich LGBTQ history. Led by Mila, the tour delves into significant landmarks and the struggles and triumphs of the LGBTQ community, including discussions on Gian Gastone and the Church’s historical role. With insights into this fascinating aspect of Florence’s past, the tour promises an enlightening experience for visitors.

You can check availability for your dates here: