The Loft
Florence, Italy

"THE LOFT" is located in a green and residential area of the historical centre between Piazza D'Azeglio and Piazza SS. Annunziata (same block of Four Seasons Hotel)

Piazza D'Azeglio - D'Azeglio Square

A 19th-century piazza with handsome gardens

This a great place to relax, yet it is really close to the center of town. Bring a book, even a picnic if you want. There are also some nice cafes and restaurants in the streets nearby. If you have children, there is a play structure for toddlers and preschoolers in side the park

Description
This piazza was formed in the Mattonaia quarter of the city, inside the city walls, at the end of the 19th century as a result of the development plan devised by the architect Poggi in the 1870s. Once established, the bourgeoisie then considered the area both residential and desirable! The area then saw the creation of Prince Umberto's theatre - sadly destroyed two decades later. Another building appeared on the piazza at the beginning of the 20th century but today, this remains one of the few green spaces in the city centre. There are amusements for young children including a merry-go-round, slides and a wooden castle in a cordoned-off area; and there are also areas for older children such as a basketball pitch.
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Santissima Annunziata

Memorable for its border of delicate arcades, the piazza is one of Florence´s more enjoyable squares. The statue of Grand Duke Ferdinand is by Giambologna whilst the unusual fountain is by his pupil, Pietro Tacca, who also created the shiny-nosed boar in the Mercato Nuovo. The portico of the Spedale degli Innocenti (the first foundlings hospital in Europe) is by Brunelleschi. The church of Santissima Annunziata was founded in 1235 by seven Florentine noblemen, who chose a life of contemplation over a life of fighting between factions and families.