The Jews of Florence: A Journey Through History and Identity
Duration: 2:30 hours
On foot
Accessible to people with disabilities
Tickets are extra – to be paid on spot.
What's included in the tour:
Private tour guide
Headphones for parties of more than 6 people
Customized itinerary
Full assistance during the tour
Interactive experience
Discover the Jewish community in Florence with Guided Florence Tours
Florence is a city of art and culture, but few know that within its streets lies the history of one of the oldest continuous Jewish communities in Europe. A people who have faced centuries of challenges and triumphs, leaving a profound mark on the city’s economic, cultural, and artistic life.
This tour will take you into the heart of Jewish Florence, uncovering the places and stories that shaped the destiny of its community. From their arrival in the 13th century as moneylenders in the Oltrarno district, to the creation of the Jewish ghetto in the 16th century and finally to the community’s revival in the 19th century, we will trace the footsteps of a presence that has made Florence even more extraordinary.
What to expect
The tour begins in the historic center, where the Jewish ghetto was established by the Medici family in 1571. As we walk through these ancient streets, we will explore the lives, traditions, and struggles of Florence’s Jewish community over the centuries.
We will discuss the privileged relationship between the Jewish community and the Medici family, especially with Lorenzo the Magnificent, and how some Jews became influential moneylenders
and intellectuals, leaving a lasting impact on the flourishing Renaissance period.
Our journey will culminate with a visit to the Great Synagogue of Florence, inaugurated in 1892 and inspired by the majestic Hagia Sophia in Istanbul. This architectural masterpiece stands as a symbol of renewed freedom and dignity for the Jewish community after centuries of restrictions.
Inside, the Jewish Museum offers a deep insight into the history of the ghetto and the lives of its inhabitants through artifacts, documents, and personal accounts.
The history of the Jewish community in Florence
The Jewish community in Florence has ancient roots, with a documented presence dating back to the 13th century. For centuries, Jews contributed to the city’s growth, particularly in moneylending and the arts. In 1571, the Jewish ghetto was established in the city center, where the community lived until the 19th century, when the ghetto was dismantled and full citizenship was granted.
In 1892, the construction of the Great Synagogue marked a new era of freedom and integration. Today, the Jewish community remains an active and vital part of Florence, preserving its traditions and identity.
Exploring Florence through its Jewish history means seeing the city from a unique perspective, discovering how different cultures coexisted and influenced one another, shaping an extraordinary legacy.
🌟 Join us on this unforgettable journey through memory, art, and culture, and experience a Florence that goes beyond its most famous landmarks.
Photo testimonials
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