Secret Florence: The Unseen Haunts of Botticelli

A cornerstone of the Florentine Renaissance, and widely considered one of the most influential artists of all time, Sandro Botticelli's legacy continues to impress over half a millennia since his death. His captivating depictions of mythological themes, characterised by graceful lines and pale hues, have inspired generations of creators across art, film, and fashion. Today, along the walls of the Botticelli rooms within the Uffizi Gallery, crowds queue ten-deep just to catch a glimpse of his most iconic works, The Birth of Venus and La Primavera.

Yet beyond these celebrated masterpieces lies a lesser-known story: the life and times of the artist behind the canvas. Botticelli was a man deeply connected to his home city, choosing to remain in Florence for much of his life. A curious young artist; a trusted friend of the Medici family, before an eventual fall from favour led to a lonely and undeniably tragic decline. Now in an exclusive partnership, suite guests of the Hotel Savoy can uncover the unseen haunts and hidden stories of this great painter.

From apprentice to master

Born in Florence in 1445 within the neighbourhood of Santa Maria Novella, located next to the Church of Ognissanti, Botticelli’s early life was steeped in the city’s artistic milieu. Christened Alessandro di Mariano di Vanni Filipepi, the name ‘Botticelli’, meaning ‘little barrel’, was a nickname bestowed by an older brother, supposedly due to his portly stature. Nevertheless, it was a name that would leave an indelible mark on art history. 

Starting as a goldsmith apprentice, Botticelli soon found his calling under the guidance of Fra Filippo Lippi, where he began painting Madonnas and frescoes for Florence’s churches. By 1470, he had his own studio on Via del Porcellana where his talent, supported by the neighbouring Vespucci family, soon drew him into the orbit of the Medici, the city’s most powerful patrons.

It was here in the cultural heart of the Renaissance, that Botticelli would reach his creative peak, the city’s fertile environment inspiring and shaping his art. His exploration of mythology and religious iconography caught the eye of Pope Sixtus IV and in 1481, he was summoned to Rome to work on the frescoed walls of the Sistine Chapel.

Less than a decade later, however, the tides began to shift for Botticelli. As Florence underwent political upheaval with the expulsion of the Medici, Italy faced the looming threats of invasion and plague. His work reflected this darker tone, marking an apocalyptic sense of foreboding. Once a celebrated artist, Botticelli's new style fell out of favour, overshadowed by the rising stars of Michelangelo and Raphael. This decline led to years of hardship as commissions dwindled and he slipped into poverty and obscurity.

By the time of his death in 1510, Botticelli had all but vanished from the spotlight, his name nearly forgotten. It wasn’t until the late 19th century, when a renewed interest in Florentine art and the Renaissance brought his work back into focus, that Botticelli was again recognised as one of the great masters. 

A key to the hidden haunts of the Renaissance

Accompanied by an expert art historian, experience Florence through the lens of the Renaissance, as you wander its enchanting streets and explore the haunts once frequented by Sandro Botticelli himself.

Your journey begins at the Uffizi Gallery, where you'll uncover the masterpieces of Botticelli, Giotto, and Ghirlandaio, tracing the evolution of Renaissance art. From there, the tour leads to the Officine Gullo, located within a deconsecrated chapel of the Church of San Salvatore di Ognissanti. Here, in true ‘Secret Florence’ style, you’ll approach a small, concealed door, where knocking is required before stepping inside. Behind this hidden entrance lies Botticelli’s tomb, watched over by the Franciscan nuns of Ognissanti. As part of this exclusive experience, guests of Hotel Savoy suites are granted private access to pay homage to the great master and admire his mural, Saint Augustine in his Study (circa 1480).

‘Secret Florence’ continues with a tasting session at Officine Gullo, where you’ll enjoy traditional Tuscan dishes. The menu evokes the flavours and aromas of meals enjoyed by Botticelli and his Renaissance peers, offering a culinary journey through time.

This exclusive experience is available to suite guests of Hotel Savoy, please contact our concierge team for more information and reservations.