Luxurious Leather: Mercato di San Lorenzo

The Mercato di San Lorenzo hums at the heart of Florence’s historic centre, mere moments from the Duomo and the grand Medici Chapels. Amidst its labyrinthine rows of stalls beneath centuries-old awnings, a choreographed commerce ensues. Brush up against buttery leather jackets, bags, and belts dyed the colour of chocolate, of burnt sienna, of espresso. Relish the moment before you decide, remember the weight of the leather in your hands, find comfort in the knowledge that, once the deal is done, a piece of Florence belongs to you.

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Iconic Eats: Florentine Steak

Bistecca alla Fiorentina, also known as Florentine Steak, is an age-old culinary ritual; this meal, shared amongst friends, is the essence of the city, of its rhythms, its traditions. It is a steak that belongs to the land, to the Chianina cattle, an ancient breed that has roamed the Val di Chiana for more than 2,000 years, their meat prized for its flavour, its texture, its theatrical presence on the plate.

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