Admiring the May flowers

I was excited yesterday morning to go to the Giardino dell’Iris. It’s one of my favorite traditions that my beloved city has to offer. Last year, unfortunately, I missed out on it. To begin the lovely morning, we first had a caffè at Giacosa. Afterwards, we zigzagged our way through the centro (historical center of town), across the Ponte alle Grazie, and past San Niccolò to reach the stairs that lead up to Piazzale Michelangiolo.

Living in Florence :: Admiring the May flowers

It was a warm day with a few clouds floating across the sky. Before walking up the stairs, we decided to walk through the Giardino delle Rose, which is now open for three months this year. It was closed for a long time and I hadn’t been since it reopened.

We walked up the narrow walkways past the fragrant and colorful roses. My favorite part, of course, is seeing the city in the background. It’s lovely to see nature right below the terracotta-colored dome of the Duomo.

We quickly exited to go up to the Piazzale Michelangiolo. I peered out at my beloved city below as we walked along the railing. We entered the Giardino dell’Iris and I felt as if we were in another world. The city was behind us and out of view, yet the giardino was full of a variety of colors and a few olive trees and rose bushes scattered throughout.

We strolled through the paths and admired the irises. The mix of colors was almost intoxicating. We both took photos and stayed there for at least an hour. In the end, it was difficult to leave, but very satisfying. I’m so happy I had time yesterday to visit the Giardino dell’Iris. All the photos I look will keep the giardino fresh in my mind until it reopens next year.

Share your comments for this blog post on the Living in Florence's Facebook page. Grazie!

Back to Top