San Lorenzo and the night of shooting stars in Florence

The 10th of August is a famous date for an event: the shooting stars. This day is also famous for the celebration of a saint who is very dear to Florence: San Lorenzo. Even today, the Florentine Historical Procession honors the day by parading to the Basilica of San Lorenzo, which is also an important symbol of the Medici family and it’s considered to be their mausoleum.

If you look at it you wouldn’t think that it’s one of the city’s most important monuments as, with its bare facade, it does not invite one to enter. On the contrary, it is one of the oldest churches in the city and hides some small treasures, such as, a tribune conceived by Michelangelo himself.

Turn your gaze also to the altar and know that the remains of Lorenzo the Magnificent and his brother Giuliano lie right here.

At the back of San Lorenzo are also the famous “Medici Chapels” which can be considered the mausoleum of the Medici family. Today it is a museum that will amaze you with the amount of marble and semi-precious stones covering the walls of the memorial as well as Michelangelo’s statues.

For centuries, Florence has not only thought about counting shooting stars in the sky, but has also paid homage to San Lorenzo with a beautiful parade of the Historical Procession.

Therefore, if you are lucky enough to be in town on the 10th of August, we recommend that you stay near the Basilica of San Lorenzo to watch them parade. They are a unique spectacle!

Do you feel like making a wish? 🌟

We know exactly where you can go to make it come true!

The “Porcellino of Florence” is one of Florence’s most famous statues. Popular belief says that it brings good luck to anyone who touches its nose. It works even better if you decide to leave a coin behind. If the coin in question is heavy, and it goes right through the grate at the statue’s feet, you can be sure that luck is on your side!

Folklore says it might even make your wishes come true if you think hard about them as you rub its glittering nose. Choosing the magical night of the 10th of August will surely bring you more luck.

Whether it’s fact or fiction, it doesn’t cost much to try. Check for yourself if the tradition is linked to some ancient truth.

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