Florence is home to many Piazza which provide a meeting place for family and friends to enjoy a gelato on an evening stroll; a point of interest for visitors to take in the view of a Basilica or monument and an open air theatre for the many street performers who entertain us throughout the season. From the grandness of the Piazza del Duomo in the historic centre, to Piazza Santa Croce, the site of the Calcio Storico Fiorentino; to the Piazza della Signoria, the political hub of our great city and a fabulous outdoor artistic and orchestral venue; all create a justifiable pause-for-thought in our route march across the city.

The most recent Piazza to be given a full make-over, and in my mind one of the prettiest, is Piazza Santa Maria Novella; just down from the Piazza della Stazione, and topped and tailed by the magnificent Santa Maria Novella Basilica, dedicated to The Virgin Mary; and the Novecento Museum, once home to the 13th century San Paolo hospital, now dedicated to contemporary works of art in Florence from the 19th century to present day. Either side of the piazza plays host to a number of elegant and newly renovated hotels, and topical bars & bistros, all of which contribute to the historically festive ambience of this square.