Reading for the Road: Books About Florence

Courtney Mundy

At The Slow Road we answer to many names (wanderers, bon vivants, students of life) but first and foremost, we’re a group of dedicated travellers.

That’s why we love compiling reading lists that include those books—from novels to memoirs, and everything in between—that have really opened up our favourite regions.

In this post, we’ll round up a few of our favourite books about Florence—Tuscany’s gorgeous capital city with a massive heart and an even larger supply of artistic and historical treasures.

Must-Read Books About Florence

The Dark Heart of Italy

By Tobias Jones

This sparkling memoir by Tobias Jones captures his four-year voyage across the Italian peninsula and how his travels introduced him to unexpected perspectives of the Bel Paese. He narrates the darker side of Italy, from the language, soccer, crime, Catholicism, cinema, television and terrorism.

Learn more on Amazon >> 

Medici Money: Banking, Metaphysics, and Art in Fifteenth-Century Florence 

By Tim Parks

The Medici family was an Italian banking family and political dynasty that first gathered prominence under Cosimo de’ Medici, in Florence during the first half of the 15th c. Tim Parks highlights how Cosimo and Lorenzo Medici, among other members of the iconic family―used diplomatic, military and metaphysical tools to further their fortunes and reputation.

Learn more on Amazon >> 

Florentine: The True Cuisine of Florence

By Emiko Davies

The 2020 edition of Emiko Davies’ award-winning Florentine rounds up her encounters with traditional Florentine cuisine and shares recipes that will transport readers to the piazzas of Florence. This updated cookbook includes stunning photographs, insider tips and neighbourhood itineraries—from 24 Hours in Florence, to Day Trips Outside the City Centre, to Best Bistecca and Pastry Shops, to Shopping for Cook’s Tools.

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An Art Lover’s Guide to Florence

By Judith Testa

With a focus on the greatest works of Florentine Renaissance art and the rich historical background behind each creation, Judith Testa provides readers with a fresh perspective over the genesis of works of art by such masters as Botticelli and Michelangelo.

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The Birth of Venus

By Sarah Dunant

This fiction novel tells the tale of art, love and religion in Florence at its most dramatic period. Through the heartfelt voice of Alessandra, Dunant brings the story of a young woman who withstands an arranged marriage to life while her love continues to blossom for a talented painter.

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The House of Medici: Its Rise and Fall

By Christopher Hibbert

A vividly written account of the famous Florentine banking family and their influence on Florence’s political, economic, and cultural history. The embodiment of the Italian Renaissance. Excellent—very readable.

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Brunelleschi’s Dome: How a Renaissance Genius Reinvented Architecture

By Ross King

Perhaps one of the most iconic structures in all of Italy, Brunelleschi’s dome considered is one of the most remarkable examples of Renaissance architecture and was the world’s largest dome at the time of construction. Award-winning author Ross King tells the story of the Florence Cathedral’s inception among the background of plagues, wars and political feuds.

Learn more on Amazon >>