Visit Florence at Christmas and witness the Hannukkah or meander among the markets
From the beginning of December for approximately two weeks, the Jewish festival the Hannukkah is celebrated in the ghetto area of Florence. The first time that Jewish segregation took place it was here in Florence when the world’s first ghetto was born.
The very word “ghetto” has become extremely overused today, describing virtually any rundown slum area of a city. The true meaning of the word describes the places where Jews, who were segregated in Christian countries due to their differing religious beliefs, inhabited. The word ghetto therefore goes hand in hand with Judaism.
Just north of the Sante Croce area you can visit the Florence synagogue, see the lighting of the Menorrah, sample delicious Kosher food and join in with Hannukkah festivities.
If witnessing this historical and utterly memorable Hannukkah doesn’t tickle your fancy there are many other reasons Christmas time in Florence is a magical and atmospheric time to visit the city.
Several Christmas fairs are held on the city’s streets and squares, weaving between the many marvellous, ancient buildings. If you want to dish out quirky and unusual presents then a trip to the markets of Florence this December would be a great place to do your Christmas shopping.
In mid-December through to January the German market comes to town as it does in many European cities where you can buy high quality crafts and food. This popular festive market is set up in the Santa Croce area of Florence.
Another great Christmas market in is the Florence Noel at the Stazione Leopolda where mouth-watering food, Christmas crafts and other interesting items can be bought.
The magnificent and historic city of Florence will always keep its visitors intrigued and entertained whatever the time of year. If you tire of the markets and festive paraphernalia you can always immerse yourself in the museums and architecture of the city, which is amongst the greatest in the world.
A UNESCO world heritage site once described as “The Athens of the Middle Ages, Florence is as sophisticated, glamorous and exciting as ever, particularly at Christmas time.