Santi Apostoli — Photo courtesy of Panoramico Santi Apostoli is a very special place in Florence, which is saying a lot in a city of special places. An elegant church that has been around since the early ninth century, legend has it that Santi Apostoli was founded by Charlemagne himself. Santi Apostoli is a small church hidden down the street Borgo SS. Apostoli, close to the Ponte Vecchio. The facade comes from the Romanesque period and entrance doors are from the 14th century. Beneath the cobbles of PIazza del Limbo is a rather grim monument–a cemetery where unbaptized babies were traditionally laid to rest.
Memorial of the babies buried under the piazza — Photo courtesy of Katie GreenawaySanti Apostoli has survived the terrible flood of 1966, numerous fires, and has been restored many, many times. The little church is paradoxically one of the most delicate and robust places in Florence's long history.
Piazza del Limbo, where Santi Apostoli is located — Photo courtesy of Katie GreenawayDuring the 1966 flood, many of the frescoes were damaged beyond repair. Some are still being restored to this day.
Interior of Santi Apostoli — Photo courtesy of PanoramioThere isn’t a lot of fanfare surrounding Santi Apostoli being that it is rarely mentioned in guidebooks, which only serves to compound the sense of tranquility and respite that characterizes the site. Santi Apostoli is brimming with positive, calm energy; if you need a break from all the running around and sightseeing on your trip, this is an ideal destination. Light a candle and enjoy the silence within these walls, even if only for a few minutes.
