Considered the Mother Church of the Servite Order, Basilica della Santissima Annunziata is located on the square by the same name in the city centre of Florence. The church history dates back to the mid 12th-century and while the exterior is very subtle and unassuming portico lined building, what you see inside is an ornately decorated interior with impressive artwork and sculptures. As you enter, you first see the small but charming Cloister of the Voltive Objects with 15th and early 16th-century frescos. You can enter the basilica where you find an elaborate display of Baroque from the 17th-century with finely decorated chapels, hosting impressive artworks and sculptures. The highlight of the basilica is the 'Glorious Virgin during the Annunciation' by Fra Bartolomeo (1252). However, there are numerous beautiful and important works to be seen, the works of numerous important Italian artists and sculptors from centuries past.

I like baroque so I love Rome. It was very nice to find this gem so close to my hotel. We attended a latin mass here and it was quite the experience among all the art. Definitely worth a visit, especially after seeing the relatively austere Duomo and Santa Croce.

This church is a hidden gem in Florence and admission is free. It’s easy to overlook this basilica because of its ordinary facade and the plainness of the piazza where it is located. The Baroque interior is simply spectacular, especially the temple, the numerous side chapels, the altar / Rotonda, and the ceiling throughout. My daughter, who was studying abroad, wants to get married here. We can’t wait to return to this truly special place.