Chiesa di San Felice in Piazza (Church of St. Felix), Florence

Just west of the Pitti Palace, on the southern bank of the Arno, stands one of Florence’s lesser-known but oldest churches—dating all the way back to 1066. While the Gothic interior holds onto its medieval spirit, the Renaissance-style façade is credited to Michelozzo, a trusted architect of the Medici.

In 1153, the Benedictines took over and by the mid-14th century, began expanding the structure. That’s when the pointed single-lancet windows were added—still visible along the outer wall. Around the same time, a lunette fresco appeared on the sixth altar on the left, portraying the Madonna and Child, Saint James the Greater, Pope Sylvester, and the abbot of Nonantola, who also happened to commission the piece.

Wander through the side aisles, and you’ll come across an amazing mini-gallery of Renaissance and Mannerist works. Among these are the “Apparition of the Madonna to Saint Hyacinth” and “Saunt Peter Martyr” by Empoli, or a charming “Madonna and Child” from the early 1400s. There’s also the striking polychrome terracotta “Deposition”, the “Madonna and Saints” by Ridolfo del Ghirlandaio, and “Madonna della Cintola and Saints”, a fresco by Bicci di Lorenzo. The 17th-century side chapels bring even more into the mix, including a vivid “Last Supper”, rescued from the now-destroyed monastery of San Pietro Martire.

It may not grab headlines like the Duomo or the Holy Cross Basilica, but this unassuming church quietly packs a punch. With centuries of history etched into its stones and masterworks tucked behind its altars, it’s a true hidden treasire—and you won’t even need a ticket to walk through its doors.