Florence’s occult and esoteric history has long captivated the curious. This walking tour takes visitors on a 3-hour journey through the city’s most enigmatic landmarks. Led by knowledgeable guides, you will uncover the stories behind influential figures and unravel the mysteries of ancient symbols. From the iconic Duomo to the Museum of Masonic Symbols, this immersive experience offers a unique perspective on Florence’s rich cultural tapestry. What secrets lie hidden within the city’s winding streets?

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Key Points

A 3-hour guided tour exploring mysterious and esoteric landmarks in Florence, including the Florence Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and the Museum of Masonic Symbols.
The tour delves into the historical insights of notable Florentine deaths, the Neoplatonic Florentine Academy, and the esoteric significance of local traditions and symbols.
The tour is priced at €190 per person and available in multiple languages, with a full refund for cancellations made up to 24 hours in advance.
The tour includes 15-30 minute stops at key locations, with a 1-hour exploration of the Museum of Masonic Symbols.
The tour has an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5, with praise for the guide’s expertise and recommendations for comfortable attire and preparation for the immersive esoteric experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Details

The "Florence: Occult & Esotericism Walking Tour" offers participants a 3-hour guided exploration of the city’s mysterious and esoteric landmarks.

A 3-hour guided exploration of Florence’s mysterious and esoteric landmarks.

Priced at €190 per person, the tour is available in English, Italian, French, and Spanish.

It’s wheelchair accessible, and the meeting point is the Monument To General Manfredo Fanti in Piazza San Marco.

Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour covers key locations like Piazza della Santissima Annunziata, the Florence Duomo, Piazza della Signoria, Ponte Vecchio, and Oltrarno, culminating in a visit to the Museum of Masonic Symbols.

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Itinerary Highlights

Guided tours take visitors to key locations, including Piazza della Santissima Annunziata for 15 minutes, the Florence Duomo Complex for 30 minutes, Piazza della Signoria for 15 minutes, Ponte Vecchio for 15 minutes, and Oltrarno for 30 minutes. The main stop is the Museum of Masonic Symbols, where visitors spend an hour exploring the significance of esoteric symbols on churches, temples, and streets.

| Location | Duration |

| — | — |

| Piazza della Santissima Annunziata | 15 minutes |

| Florence Duomo Complex | 30 minutes |

| Piazza della Signoria | 15 minutes |

| Ponte Vecchio | 15 minutes |

| Oltrarno | 30 minutes |

Historical Insights

Alongside the tour’s highlights, the historical insights uncover the mysterious deaths of notable Florentines.

Participants will investigate the execution of Girolamo Savonarola in 1498 and the arsenic poisoning of Pico della Mirandola and Agnolo Poliziano in 1494.

The tour also explores the significance of the Santa Croce and Santa Maria Novella basilicas, as well as the Neoplatonic Florentine Academy and its cultural impact.

Plus, the tour delves into the history of the Templars, Cathars, and the first Masonic lodge in Florence.

Execution of Girolamo Savonarola in 1498
Arsenic poisoning of Pico della Mirandola and Agnolo Poliziano in 1494
Significance of Santa Croce and Santa Maria Novella basilicas

Esoteric Themes and Symbols

As participants venture through the tour, they discover esoteric symbols adorning churches, temples, and streets.

One of the most intriguing is the Latin palindrome inscribed on the Florence Baptistery’s floor, which reads "Sacrum Sanctuarium Dei, In Quo Soli Fas Est Ingredi Cui Lucidus Est Animus" or "Holy sanctuary of God, into which it’s permitted to enter only to those whose mind is enlightened."

Plus, the tour examines the historical context of the Holy Sepulcher stones used in local traditions, uncovering their deeper esoteric significance.

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Tour Experience and Reviews

The Florence: Occult & Esotericism Walking Tour has received a respectable rating of 4.3 out of 5 based on 4 reviews.

Participants have praised the quality of the guide, particularly highlighting Susanna’s expertise. Reviewers expressed a desire for more detailed exploration of historic monument facades and codes.

Susanna’s expertise has been praised, though participants desire more in-depth exploration of historic monuments and their esoteric codes.

To make the most of the tour, recommendations include:

Wearing comfortable shoes and clothing
Bringing identification
Preparing to take in the city’s esoteric history and symbolism.

There's plenty more to explore in Florence

Mysterious Deaths of Notable Florentians

The Florence: Occult & Esotericism Walking Tour delves into the mysterious deaths of several notable Florentines throughout history. The tour examines the execution of Girolamo Savonarola in 1498, as well as the arsenic poisoning of Pico della Mirandola and Agnolo Poliziano in 1494. The significance of these events is explored in the context of the tour’s exploration of esoteric symbols and the Neoplatonic Florentine Academy.

| Notable Florentine | Cause of Death | Year |

| — | — | — |

| Girolamo Savonarola | Execution | 1498 |

| Pico della Mirandola | Arsenic Poisoning | 1494 |

| Agnolo Poliziano | Arsenic Poisoning | 1494 |

Significance of Local Basilicas and Academies

Along With the mysterious deaths explored, the Florence: Occult & Esotericism Walking Tour examines the significance of two local basilicas – Santa Croce and Santa Maria Novella.

These grand structures hold deep historical and esoteric significance:

Santa Croce is revered for housing the tombs of notable figures like Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli, as well as fragments of the True Cross.
Santa Maria Novella is renowned for its Mannerist architecture and contains the Neoplatonic Florentine Academy, which greatly influenced Renaissance philosophy and art.

The tour also delves into the cultural impact of this influential academy and its connections to esoteric traditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Safety Precautions Are in Place for the Tour?

The tour operators take safety seriously, providing wheelchair accessibility and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring identification. The tour prioritizes guest safety and security.

Can I Take Photographs During the Tour?

Participants may take photographs during the tour. However, they’re advised to be respectful and avoid disrupting the guide’s commentary or other group members’ experience. Photography policies may vary at certain sites, so participants should follow the guide’s instructions.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There’s no strict dress code for the tour. Visitors should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and walking shoes. Layering is recommended, as the tour involves both indoor and outdoor locations. Casual attire is fine, as long as it’s suitable for a walking tour.

Is There an Age Limit or Suitability for Children?

The tour is suitable for all ages, though it may not be appropriate for young children due to the mature themes. There is no stated age limit, and families are welcome to participate at their discretion.

Are There Any Physical Activity Requirements I Should Be Aware Of?

The tour involves 1.5 hours of walking, including some hills and uneven terrain. Participants should be able to walk and stand for extended periods. Comfortable shoes are recommended. There are no age limits, but the content may not be suitable for young children.

The Sum Up

The "Florence: Occult & Esotericism Walking Tour" offers a captivating exploration of the city’s esoteric past. Participants can explore the mysteries of Florence’s iconic landmarks, uncover the stories of renowned figures, and discover the hidden symbolism that permeates the local culture. This immersive experience promises to shed light on the city’s rich and enigmatic heritage, leaving visitors with a deeper understanding of Florence’s occult and esoteric traditions.