Piazza Santo Spirito is a tree-shaded square in Florence’s Oltrarno, across the Arno from the historic centre. Benches, café tables and a morning market give it the feel of a neighbourhood gathering place, while the surrounding streets retain the workshops and small studios for which the area is known.
The square is dominated by the Basilica di Santo Spirito, designed by Filippo Brunelleschi in the 15th century. Its austere façade gives little away, but inside, a measured rhythm of columns and arches makes it one of Florence’s finest Renaissance churches. The basilica also houses a wooden crucifix attributed to the young Michelangelo, connected to his time at the adjoining Augustinian convent.
Visit Piazza Santo Spirito in the morning for a quieter look at the basilica and a browse of the market, or come in the early evening when the bars and trattorias fill with people stopping for aperitivo. Market days and church opening hours can vary, so check ahead if either is central to your plans. The square is easily reached on foot via Ponte Santa Trinita or Ponte Vecchio; expect a livelier, sometimes noisy atmosphere later at night.