Badia Fiorentina, Florence

This abbey, one of Florence's ancient churches, traces its roots back to 978 when it was established by Willa, the widowed spouse of Count Uberto of Tuscany. The church became the final resting place of their son, Count Ugo, who was interred there in 1001. The exquisite tomb, carved by the skilled hands of Mino da Fiesole between 1469 and 1481, stands as a testament to their legacy. Inside, visitors can also admire Filippino Lippi's captivating masterpiece, "The Virgin Appearing to Saint Bernard" from 1485, which brings vitality to the otherwise solemn atmosphere.

Don't miss the opportunity to explore the tranquil Chiostro degli Aranci, known as the "cloister of the orange trees," although it's only open on Monday afternoons and may require some effort to locate (look for a door to the right of the altar). While the orange trees cultivated by the monks are no longer present, the cloister boasts enchanting early frescoes and provides glimpses of the hexagonal 14th-century campanile mentioned by Dante in the 'Paradiso' section of his renowned epic, "The Divine Comedy".