Practical Travel - The FLORENCE Page

17/01/2024

Here are the winners of the Il Forhettiere Magazine Awards 2024:

• Best Restaurant in Florence:
Cibrèo Ristorante
Via del Verrocchio, 8r, Firenze

• Best Fine Dining Restaurant in Florence:
Architettura del Cibo
via Frà Bartolommeo 54, Firenze

• Best Hotel Restaurant in Florence:
Il Palagio
Hotel: Four Seasons
Borgo Pinti 99, Firenze

• Best Traditional Trattoria in Florence:
Antico Ristoro di Cambi
Via S. Onofrio 1r, Firenze

• Best International Restaurant in Florence:
Sevi
Type: Peruvian Style
Via Maragliano 24, Firenze

• Best Pizzeria in Florence:
Il Vecchio e il Mare
Via Vincenzo Gioberti, 61N, Firenze

• Best Cocktail Bar in Florence:
Caffè Concerto Paszkowski
Piazza della Repubblica, 35, Firenze

• Best Gelateria in Florence:
Badiani
Type: Gelateria Pasticceria
Viale dei Mille 20/R, Firenze

• Best Bakery in Florence:
Wild Buns
Via Di Camaldoli 1c, Firenze

• Best Street Food in Florence:
Tripperia Vegana Tanotto
Type: Vegan
Viale Alessandro Guidoni, 85, Firenze
NOTE – Contact via WhatsApp = Place Order including time of pick-up = Wait outside address for your order // or they have contactless delivery // see FB or Website // small menu including sandwiches, drinks, sweets

• Best Deli in Florence:
Enoteca Alessi
Type: Wine Bar
Via delle Oche, 27-29-31r, Firenze

• Chef “One to Watch”:
Chef Fabio Nistri
Location: Degusteria Italiana Restorante
Via Lambertesca, 7/R, Firenze
Note: small with limited seating
Awards: Michelin 2022, 2023, 2024

• Best new opening 2023:
Saporium Firenze
Lungarno Benvenuto Cellini, 69/R, Firenze

• Best Restaurant outside Florence:
Podere Belvedere
Via San Piero a Strada n° 23, Pontassieve, Italy
(30 min. drive / 17 min. train from Firenze Campo Marte Station)

• Best Restaurant in Tuscany:
Il Frantoio
Via Del Castello 40, Colle di Val d'Elsa, Italy
(50 min. drive / 1 hr. 20 min by bus)

• Best Pizzeria in Tuscany:
Lo Spela
via Poneta 44, Greve in Chianti
(35 min. drive / 40 min. by bus from Piazzale Montelungo)

• Best Cocktail Bar in Tuscany:
Salotto Negroni 1919
via del Castello 2, Certaldo, Italy
(56 min. drive / 52 min. train from Firenze Santa Maria Novella)

04/11/2023

As many have heard, on Nov 2-3, a horrible storm hit Tuscany, killing at least 8 people. A state of emergency has been declared as storm warnings continue through tonight. Damage to the region is extensive and rescue efforts continue. Some homes in Montale, Montemurlo and Prato have been evacuated. Local authorities are asking that tourists avoid these areas as they could inadvertently hinder rescue efforts.

How to help Tuscany after Storm Ciarán flooding:
Make a donation through:
• The Italian Red Cross (site in English) https://dona.cri.it/sostienici/~my-donation?context_form_id=form_a0c5bd7993e633ad19b63e7ed9196aa813fc8532_6546945aea95d3.26996242
• Monrif newspaper group: In Italy: IBAN: IT21 U086 7302 8010 0000 0913 630 // From abroad: Bic/Swift: ICRAITRRIP0
• Corriere Fiorentino: Within Italy: IBAN: IT14H0306909606100000196339 // From abroad: Bic/Swift: BCITITMM

I will list more donation avenues as they become available. Until then, please keep those affected by this storm in your thoughts.

PHOTO: The Florentine
(if you don't already follow The Florentine page, I encourage you to do so, for the most accurates and up-to-date information / events / articles, on Florence and the Tuscany Region.

03/11/2023

Tomorrow, 4 Nov 2023, GO (Giunti Odeon Cinema) will re-open. The cinema is located on Piazza degli Strozzi inside the beautiful Renaissance palace, Palazzo dello Strozzino.

The cinema presents films in both Italian and English and is open from 08:30 AM to 20:00 PM. Check the website for upcoming presentations and events. The location also includes Il Caffè Odeon di Firenze, with indoor and outdoor seating, offering meals, pastry, coffee/tea, wine and cocktails; as well as a bookshop, La libreria di Giunti Odeon (open: 08:30 AM to 20:00 PM).

Films begin tomorrow night. Tickets are available on the GO website.

Official website of GiuntiOdeon, BookShop, cinema, restaurant and more

21/10/2023

Between Siena and Florence lies the very heart of Tuscany, the Chianti region of Italy. It is one of the most beautiful areas in the entire world. When people think of Italy, in general, many think of Rome’s ancient buildings, Venice’s canals or Tuscany’s beautiful landscapes.

For more about this interesting and exciting part of Tuscany, check out my article,

Out and About: Chianti – “The Heart of Tuscany”
https://www.facebook.com/notes/392577245088106

19/10/2023

UPDATE: Visa's won't be required until mid-2025

IMPORTANT EU TRAVEL UPDATE!

Beginning in 2024, the requirements to enter Europe and Schengen states will require special travel authorization. This authorization, will be required of travelers from the United States, Canada, and Britian and is good for short-term travel of Up-To 90 Days within a 180 Day Period. The authorization itself, is good to use for 3 years after approval.

Below I have address some of the questions you may have regarding the new authorization. If you have additional questions, please feel free to contact me in the comment section below or via messenger.

Why Are the Rules Changing?
According to the EU Travel Information & Authorization System (ETIAS) website, the new authorization will be used to “identify security, irregular migration or high epidemic risks posed by visa-exempt visitors.”

How Long Will This Authorization Last?
It is good for stays on Less Than 90 Days

Is this a Work Visa?
No. This new authorization cannot be used as a work visa.

How Does It Work?
The Authorization will be connected to your individual passport.

What If I Lose My Passport While Abroad?
Since the authorization is connected to the passport, you will need to apply for a new authorization when you apply for your new passport. If you carry travel insurance, the company may be able to help you quickly get through this process.

Do I Need Authorization?
You will need to obtain authorization if you:
• Are not a citizen of the EU
• You do not have a residence permit or card issued by any EU countries that are listed below.

Which Countries will be requiring ETIAS Authorizations?

NORTHERN EUROPE
• Denmark
• Estonia
• Finland
• Iceland
• Latvia
• Lithuania
• Norway
• Sweden

SOUTHERN EUROPE
• Croatia
• Cyprus
• Greece
• Italy
• Malta
• Portugal
• Slovenia
• Spain

WESTERN EUROPE
• Austria
• Belgium
• France
• Germany
• Liechtenstein
• Luxembourg
• Netherlands
• Switzerland

EASTERN EUROPE
• Bulgaria
• Czech Republic
• Hungary
• Poland
• Romania
• Slovakia

How do I Apply for ETIAS Authorization?
The Application section of their website will be operational in early 2024. When it does become active, simply:
• Go to the ETIAS Website
• Click the link for the Application page
Prior to this time, you can sign up for emails on the website.

What Information Is Required for the Application Process?
• Name
• Address
• Passport Info
• Current Occupation
• Itinerary – Travel Plans
• List of Relatives who are Citizens of the EU
• Past Travel info to any zones “in conflict”
• Any Criminal Convictions

How Much is the Application Fee?
The cost of the ETIAS Application will be
• Over age 18 = €7
• Over age 70 = Free
• Under age 18 = Free

Once I am approved for the ETIAS Authorization, How Long Will It Last?
The authorization itself, lasts for 3 years.
However, the authorization is only good for visits of Up-To 90 days within that period of 180 Days (almost 6-month period of time). So, keep that in mind.

Here is a link to the official ETIAS page. Do Not Give Personal Information on ANY OTHER PAGE claiming to be ETIAS! Always be aware that All Official European Union website addresses are in the europa.eu domain.

Official EU website on ETIAS, the new travel authorisation for visa-exempt travellers to enter 30 European countries. Applications should be filled in this website from mid-2025.

17/10/2023

It's NATIONAL PASTA DAY!
So, let's make some:
RAGU TOSCANO DI BENEDETTA

Ragù Toscano takes a bit of prep and a while to prepare. But I guarantee it is most definitely worth the effort. The classic steps and slow process in creating this recipe, are just as essential as the ingredients themselves.

Unlike other meat sauces, this ragù has a more herb forward flavor due to the inclusion of Bay, Rosemary and Sage. But it still retains that classic tomatoey richness; although it is a bit dryer than what you may be used too.

Ragù Toscano is all about getting the most out of the meat. The choice of meats, browning and simmering, low and slow, mean that the end result will be flavorful and satisfying.

THE STORY OF THIS RECIPE

One of my favorite memories of my time in Italy was spending time with the locals. Back in 2013, I had an apartment in Florence. My neighbor was an older woman named, Benedetta. At first, we would just make eye contact and nod at each other; But over time, we began saying hello and then to have conversations about food and culture and family, in my broken Italian and her broken English.

One evening, Benedetta asked me if I would like to learn how to make some traditional Italian dishes, and of course, I jumped at the chance. The next morning, after a nice cup of strong coffee, we headed out to the market. We bought vegetables and meat, then headed back to my place to begin preparing the food. We were making the traditional ragù of the region. Benedetta was very specific about what was to go into the dish and what wasn’t. She stressed, above all else, that the process was just as important as the ingredients, and any deviation would result is a meat sauce and not the traditional ragù Toscano.

So, here it is. Benedetta’s Ragù Toscano, the way she taught it to me. It’s a little bit of Florence from your own kitchen. Remember to read the entire recipe, especially my notes, before you begin. This way you will not be caught off guard during the cooking process. To make it easier, it is also best to prepare all the ingredients before you begin.

LINK TO MY STEP-BY-STEP RECIPE:
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.4086049338147945&type=3

FOR MORE OF MY RECIPES:
Natalie's Kitchen - Step By Step

Ragù Toscano takes a bit of prep and a while to prepare. But I guarantee it is most definitely worth the effort. The classic steps and slow process in creating this recipe, are just as essential as the ingredients themselves.

Unlike other meat sauces, this ragù has a more herb forward flavor due to the inclusion of Bay, Rosemary and Sage. But it still retains that classic tomatoey richness; although it is a bit dryer than what you may be used too.

Ragù Toscano is all about getting the most out of the meat. The choice of meats, browning and simmering, low and slow, mean that the end result will be flavorful and satisfying.

THE STORY OF THIS RECIPE

One of my favorite memories of my time in Italy was spending time with the locals. Back in 2013, I had an apartment in Florence. My neighbor was an older woman named, Benedetta. At first, we would just make eye contact and nod at each other; But over time, we began saying hello and then to have conversations about food and culture and family, in my broken Italian and her broken English.

One evening, Benedetta asked me if I would like to learn how to make some traditional Italian dishes, and of course, I jumped at the chance. The next morning, after a nice cup of strong coffee, we headed out to the market. We bought vegetables and meat, then headed back to my place to begin preparing the food. We were making the traditional ragù of the region. Benedetta was very specific about what was to go into the dish and what wasn’t. She stressed, above all else, that the process was just as important as the ingredients, and any deviation would result is a meat sauce and not the traditional ragù Toscano.

So, here it is. Benedetta’s Ragù Toscano, the way she taught it to me. It’s a little bit of Florence from your own kitchen. Remember to read the entire recipe, especially my notes, before you begin. This way you will not be caught off guard during the cooking process. To make it easier, it is also best to prepare all the ingredients before you begin.

01/09/2023

For a bit of something different, let's get ready for the weekend with some Italian Brunch Cocktails! (Recipes and Links below)

Here are recipes for three of my favorite Brunch Cocktails! All originated at the famous Harry's Bar (St. Mark's Square) in Venice.
* Bellini: Peach & Prosecco
* Rossini: Strawberry & Prosecco
* Blushing Mimosa: Pink Grapefruit & Prosecco (aka Megmosa)

*** BELLINI ***
Makes 3 Bellini

Who doesn't love ripe Peaches and bubbly Prosecco! This cocktail was invented in the late 1930's by Giuseppe Cipriani, founder of Harry's Bar in Venice, Italy.

INGREDIENTS
* 4 ripe White Peaches or 3/4 cup Puree
* 1 (750 ml) bottle of very cold Prosecco
Garnish: Peach slices, Raspberries
Note:
* Peaches can be fresh, frozen or jarred.
* Bottle Puree/Nectar can also be used
* If using fresh peaches, be sure to remove the skin

DIRECTIONS
In a Flute glass, pour 1/4 cup Peach Puree and top with Prosecco
Garnish with sliced peaches and/or Raspberries
Serve immediately

*** ROSSINI ***
Makes 3 Rossini

This was the first 'twisted mimosa' I ever had. It was during my first trip to Rome and it was sooo amazing!
Also originating at Harry's Bar in Venice, this cocktail is named for Italian composer Gioachino Rossini, and is made with pureed strawberries!

INGREDIENTS
* 3/4 cup Strawberry Puree
* 1 (750 ml) bottle of very cold Prosecco
Garnish: Strawberry slices
Note:
* Strawberries can be fresh or frozen
* If using fresh strawberries be sure to remove the hull, stem and leaves

DIRECTIONS
* In a Flute glass, pour 1/4 cup Strawberry Puree and top off with Prosecco
Garnish with strawberry slices
Serve immediately

*** BLUSHING PINK GRAPEFRUIT MIMOSA ***
Makes 3 Mimosa

This is a fun twist on the typical Mimosa. The recipe is exactly the same, we are just switching the Orange Juice with Pink Grapefruit Juice. This can also be made with Blood Orange Juice for true Southern Italian flare!

INGREDIENTS
* 3/4 cup Pink Grapefruit Juice (no pulp)
* 1 (750 ml) bottle of very cold Prosecco
Garnish: Grapefruit Triangles, Fresh Thyme

DIRECTIONS
* In a Flute glass, pour 1/4 cup Pink Grapefruit Juice and top with Prosecco
Garnish with Grapefruit and Thyme sprig
Serve immediately

PERFECT BRUNCH RECIPES!

Perfect served with my Quick Avocado Toast
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=4882420575177480&set=a.4882429085176629
Buttermilk Pancakes
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=4882423138510557&set=a.4882429085176629
Breakfast Frittata
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=4882422565177281&set=a.4882429085176629

MORE BREAKFAST/BRUNCH FARE
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.4882429085176629&type=3

15/08/2023

What is Ferragosto, you may ask ... Well, in Italy, it's a Nationwide Holiday remembering the Feriae Augusti, or the festival of the Augustus, the first Roman Emperor who brought about the Pax Romana, the golden age of the empire which lasted almost 200 years.

Today you will find Italians celebrating with family and friends at BBQs and Picnics at the park or beach, Buon Ferragosto, Amici!

For more on Ferragosto, click the link below.
https://www.romewise.com/what-is-ferragosto.html

For more August Events in Rome ... click this link.
https://www.romewise.com/rome-events-in-august.html

11/08/2023

Want my Favorite Florence Itinerary?
Check Out Florence's Best Of The Best!
Here are the LINKS.... What are you waiting for!

“Florence Itinerary: Best of the Best: Days 1 – 3”
https://www.facebook.com/notes/801701037309828/

Florence Itinerary: Best of the Best of the Rest - Days 4 - 6/7
https://www.facebook.com/notes/924351501424334/

These are my absolute favorite sites – my Florence. Not just ‘tourist spots’, but my Firenze. The list is in order and shows my Daily Itinerary, so if you look at Day 1, that is most likely where you will find me on my first day – even if it’s the only day I’m in Florence. For day two, I move on... and down the list I go! Unless of course, there is a special exhibit I don’t want to miss! Which happens frequently!

COVERING:
** Transportation: Arrival – Airports, Trains, Taxi, Rental Car, etc. / Getting from Town to Town in Italy
** Accommodation: Hotel vs. Apartment
** How to beat that dreaded Jet Lag!!!
** Grocery shopping: grabbing apartment essentials
** Sites: Museums, Parks/Gardens, Churches, etc.
** How to Avoid Waiting In Line!
** Where to pick up a Firenze Card / Do you need a Firenze Card?
** Visiting Local Artisans in the Oltrano
** Historical Performances – in English!
** Dinning: My favorite spots for Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

*** AND ***
Site / Eatery Links – both Website and Facebook when available

*** AND AND ***
Links to videos, including:
• Understanding the Italian Coffee Bar
• Italy By Train: Buying a Train Ticket using the Ticket Kiosk
• Italy By Train: How to take the Train in Italy

AS WELL AS – Videos explaining the Art of Florence

Links to my other Florence Articles, Including:

** Out & About – Fiesole, Chianti, Ravenna, Rome, Assisi
** Language – Italian Cheat Sheet 1, Italian Part 2, Language of Pasta

AND Links to my other Pages… Yes, I have other pages… Travel Food & History!!!

So Check Out Florence's Best Of The Best!
Here are the LINKS.... What are you waiting for!

“Florence Itinerary: Best of the Best: Days 1 – 3”
https://www.facebook.com/notes/801701037309828/

Florence Itinerary: Best of the Best of the Rest - Days 4 - 6/7
https://www.facebook.com/notes/924351501424334/

Viaggi Meravigliosi!

05/06/2023

Florence ... SMH ...
Guess what is opening at via de Cerretani 46R .... yup ... Starbucks ... another Starbucks. There is already one in the train station. I get that one for quick to-go coffee for the train. But just of Piazza del Duomo???

Sorry, but with all the amazing coffee to be enjoyed in Italy ... why .... just ... why ... This isn't France (the blah and bitter coffee country)

OK. Sorry for the disruption. I just had to shake my head for a moment. What's next ... Domino's Pizza in Naples? SMH

Details: https://www.theflorentine.net/2023/06/05/starbucks-opening-via-dei-cerretani/?fbclid=IwAR3nP41LzLAOMOKYm0Jz_itXT-ab5slGIzEW5xgxrYb409kSCwPsviBP5-o

Work is underway on the Starbucks coffee shop in via dei Cerretani, a minute from piazza del Duomo in Florence.

12/04/2023

!!! UPCOMMING EVENT !!!
WHAT: Hvitfeldtska Chamber Choir Concert
WHERE: Basilica of Santissima Annunziata
WHEN: Friday April 14, 2023
TIME: 8:30 PM (20.30)

Concerto del "Hvitfeldtska Chamber Choir" di Goteborg, presso la Basilica della SS. Annunziata, con accoglienza della Corale "Ecce Ancilla Domini" e del "Piccolo Coro Melograno", venerdì 14 aprile 2023, ore 20.30.

#14 aprile

11/04/2023

Trenitalia Strike
Friday, 14 April

11/04/2023

!!! UPCOMING EVENT !!!
* WHAT - 3rd Annual Michelangelo International Music Festival
* WHEN - 13 - 16 April 2023
* TIME - 8:30 PM (20:30)
* WHERE -
-- FRIDAY: Santissima Annunziata di Firenze (Piazza della SS. Annunziata)
-- SATURDAY: Basilica of Saint Trinity aka Santa Trinita (Piazza di Santa Trinita - near Palazzo Strozzi)
-- SUNDAY: Church of the Holy Apostles aka Chiesa dei Santi Apostoli (Piazza del Limbo, 1 - between the Ponte Vecchio and the Palazzo Strozzi)
* EXPECT - International Choirs, Costumed singers/musicians, Traditional musical renditions

SYNOPSIS
The 3rd Michelangelo International Music Festival will officially start on Thursday, April 13 at 20.30 in the Santissima Annunziata, organized by the “Florence Choral” Association, chaired and directed by the Florentine bass-baritone Leonardo Sagliocca. The festival will host interesting choirs from Croatia, Latvia and Italy. During the days of the Festival, choirs will entertain other beautiful Florentine places such as the Basilica of Saint Trinity and the Church of the Holy Apostles. In the jury of the contest annexed to the Festival, the first horn of the Orchestra del Maggio Musicale Fiorentino, Luca Benucci and soprano Claudia Basile Pop. The Festival is a unique occasion to admire the magic of heterogeneous and precious costumes and musical traditions, combined with the extraordinary beauty of Fiorentino's historical places.

Avrà ufficialmente inizio giovedì 13 aprile alle ore 20,30 nella Santissima Annunziata il 3° Michelangelo International Music Festival, organizzato dall’Associazione “Florence Choral”, presieduta e diretta dal basso-baritono fiorentino Leonardo Sagliocca. Il Festival ospiterà interessanti cori da Croazia, Lettonia e Italia. Nei giorni di svolgimento del Festival, i cori animeranno altri bellissimi luoghi fiorentini come la Basilica di Santa Trinita e la Chiesa dei Santi Apostoli. Nella giuria del concorso annesso al Festival, il primo c***o dell'Orchestra del Maggio Musicale Fiorentino, Luca Benucci e il soprano Claudia Basile Pop. Il Festival è un'occasione unica per ammirare la magia di costumi e tradizioni musicali eterogenee e preziose, combinati con la straordinaria bellezza dei luoghi storici fiorentini.

01/04/2023

On average, approximately 5,000 American students study abroad in Florence, each semester.

If you’re questioning whether you wanted to study abroad in Florence, you should know that studying abroad was the best decision of my life.

29/03/2023

Florence’s reaction to Tallahassee, Florida school district after they called Michelangelo‘s David pornographic

Of course Michelangelo’s David’s not pornographic, as a parent at a Christian charter school in Tallahassee, Florida recently complained when a teacher showed photos of arguably the world’s most famous statue to her students.

Dario Nardella, Mayor of Florence, has invited the teacher to come to Florence in order to honour her. His words: “Confusing art with po*******hy is simply ridiculous…Art is civilization and whoever teaches it deserves respect.” In a phone interview with the Associated Press, Cecilie Hollberg, director of the Accademia Gallery, where the David is housed, commented, “To think that David could be pornographic means truly not understanding the contents of the Bible, not understanding Western culture and not understanding Renaissance art.”

They are not the only ones to react. Yale-educated art historian Laura Morelli is offering a crash course on Michelangelo’s David to members of the Tallahassee school community. The academic says, “I took my own children to Florence to see the David in person. They all reported the David was the most impressive thing they saw on their trip to Italy. It’s incredible that a 500-year-old sculpture can have that effect on kids who see more images in a single day than most people in 1500 saw in their entire lives.”

Context is everything. Which is why we’re recommending Professor Victor Coonin’s “From Marble to Flesh. The Biography of Michelangelo’s David” to everyone who’s willing to understand the historical and cultural background behind this artistic icon, from the quarrying of the marble near Carrara to the sculpture’s adoption by contemporary artists. Buy the book: https://www.theflorentine.net/prodotto/coonin-michelangelo-biography/

Michelangelo was commissioned to craft the David by the workers of Florence Cathedral. On January 25, 1504, a commission consisting of Leonardo da Vinci, Sandro Botticelli and Filippino Lippi, among others, decided that the sculpture would be placed by the entrance into the Palazzo Vecchio as a symbol of the strength and independence of the Florentines. On September 8, 1504, the statue was unveiled to the admiration of all.

16/02/2023

SEE BELOW FOR MORE INFOR ON ANNA MARIA LUISA DE'MEDICI

This 18 February, will mark the 280th Anniversary of the death of Anna Maria Luisa de’ Medici, Electress Palatine, the last lineal descendant of the House of Medici, and the reason Florence is called the "City of Art"

It was Anna Maria Luisa who formally and legally willed the possessions of the Grand Duchy of Tuscany over to the state, upon her death in 1743.

“Galleries, Paintings, Statues, Libraries, Jewels, and other valuable things […] provided that what is expressed by the State ornament, for the public interest and to attract the curiosity of strangers, and will not be anything transported and lifted out from the Grand Duchy capital and the state.” --- The “Family Pact”
(MORE BELOW)

If you are in Florence, and would like to pay your respects, Anna Maria Luisa de’Medici is buried with many of her ancestors, in the Ca****la dei Principi (Medici Chapel), located within the Basilica di San Lorenzo complex. For information, check out their websites:
https://sanlorenzofirenze.it/
https://sanlorenzofirenze.it/le-cappelle-medicee/

To remember Anna Maria Luisa’s great gift to the city of Florence, The Bargello, Medici Chapels Museum and Palazzo Davanzati Museum will be extending their hours, giving all a bit of extra time to appreciate the beauty contained within their walls.
For more info on entry, check out this article from The Florentine
https://www.theflorentine.net/2023/02/14/extended-museum-hours-to-honour-anna-maria-luisa-de-medici/

ANNA MARIA LUISA DE'MEDICI

The only daughter of Cosimo III, Grand Duke of Tuscany and Marguerite Louise d’Orléans (granddaughter of King Henry IV of France and his wife, Queen Marie de’Medici), Anna Maria Luisa de’Medici was born in Palazzo Pitti on 11 August 1667. She married the Elector Palatine, Johann Wilhelm II by proxy on 29 April 1691 and then again in person, a couple of weeks later. Anna Maria was a patron of the arts, especially music. The couple never had children.

Anna Maria returned to Florence in October 1717, following the death of her husband the year prior. When her brother Gian Gastone d’Medici, died on July 9, 1737, he left Anna Maria all the Medici holdings; including money, the family art collection, the lands of the former Duchy of Urbino with its robes of state, and various other holdings. Anna Maria, in turn, drew a will, known as the “Family Pact”, which, upon her death, would transfer all of the Medici property to the Tuscan state. The only caveat being that no piece of the Medici donation could ever be removed from Florence.

“Galleries, Paintings, Statues, Libraries, Jewels, and other valuable things […] provided that what is expressed by the State ornament, for the public interest and to attract the curiosity of strangers, and will not be anything transported and lifted out from the Grand Duchy capital and the state.”
--- The “Family Pact”

Electress Anna Maria Louisa de’Medici died there on 18 February 1743 at the age of 75 years. Upon her death, the Electress bequeathed the art collected by her family over the years. Those priceless treasures are now housed in the Galleria degli Uffizi, Palazzo Pitti, and the various villas owned by the Medici family. Also included in her donation were her jewelry and various art pieces she acquired as Electress Palatine.

GENERAL INFO ABOUT
ANNA MARIA LUISA de’MEDICI

BORN
11 August 1667
Palazzo Pitti
Florence, Tuscany

PARENTS
** Cosimo III de’Medici, Grand Duke of Tuscany
** Marguerite Louise d’Orleans, Grand Duchess consort of Tuscany
NOTE
** Marguerite Louise was the granddaughter of King Henry IV of France and his wife, Queen Marie de’Medici (daughter of Francesco I, Grand Duke of Tuscany).
** She was also the niece of Louis XIII, King of France, Elisabeth, Queen of Spain and Portugal and Henrietta Maria, Queen of England, Scotland and Ireland.

SPOUSE
Johnann Wihelm II, Elector Palatine – Ruler of the Palatinate of the Rhine in the Kingdom of Germany and the Holy Roman Empire

TITLES
* Electress of the Palatinate
* Duchess of Neuburg, Julich and Berg, of Cham and the Upper Palatinate
* Countess of Megen

DEATH - age 75 years
18 February 1743
Palazzo Pitti
Florence, Tuscany

BURIAL
Ca****la dei Principi
Basilica di San Lorenzo
Florence

IMAGE:
Cover created by me using an image of the painting, 'The Electress', by Jan Frans van Douven

15/02/2023

From My Page, Natalie's Kitchen - Step By Step
Schiacciata - The Carnival Cake of Florence
(Link to my STEP BY RECIPE Below!)

It’s Carnival time in Tuscany and one way of celebrating the coming of Easter is with this wonderful sponge cake. Light with a fresh hint of Orange, this cake reminds me of my time, not only in Florence but also in Sicily, where I had some of the best oranges in the world! This cake is also a reminder that Spring is just around the corner!

In Florence this cake can be found, not only during Carnivale, but the rest of the year too in Pasticceria all over town. One of my favorite ways to eat this cake is to slice the piece in half and fill with Nutella. Others love to have it filled with Whipped Cream or even Jam or Fruit. However, you choose to eat it, Schiacciata is one of my favorite reminders of my Florentine travels. Bon Appetito!

STEP BY STEP RECIPE LINK
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.604808212938759.1073741855.591951340891113&type=3

It’s Carnival time in Tuscany (as well as the rest of Italy) and one way of celebrating the coming of Lent and Easter is with this wonderful sponge cake. Light with a fresh hint of Orange, this cake reminds me of my time, not only in Florence but also in Sicily, where I had some of the best oranges in the world! This cake is also a reminder that Spring is just around the corner!

In Florence this cake can be found, not only during Carnivale, but the rest of the year too, in Pasticceria all over town. One of my favorite ways to eat this cake is to slice the piece in half and fill it with Nutella. Others love to have it filled with Whipped Cream, Custard, Jam or Fresh Fruit. However, you choose to eat it, Schiacciata is one of my favorite reminders of my times in Florence.
Bon Appetito!