19 Comments
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Shawna Hart's avatar

Thank you for this episode! It left me inspired to have my young teens listen to get a detailed background on what to look for in the art and I’m for sure taking us to The Tornabuoni Chapel when we are in Florence this summer 🤍

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Danielle Oteri's avatar

That’s fabulous, I love hearing this!

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Life Lived Italian's avatar

Really appreciate your comments about this wine-window, panino plague. We had a college-age relative visit Florence last summer and she explained to us that she really didn't check out any of the museums as that wasn't her thing-- but recounted with great enthusiasm her visits to said wine-windows and sandwich shop. It really broke our hearts-- because of the lost opportunity for her and the damage done to the city by visits like that. You're ability to communicate the magic and relevance of these works of art is so valuable and so needed.

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Danielle Oteri's avatar

Thank you so much for this beautiful comment! It's upsetting how much social media closes the door to magic. I try to think of those Instagram moments like pilgrims' badges, and I understand the allure and the satisfaction of finding something on a sort of treasure map. But the complete disinterest in what's beyond that is disturbing.

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Jennifer Passudetti Jacobs's avatar

Danielle this was a lovely episode. I love how you weave history and art together through your words. I listened to this yesterday and now coming on here to see the picture you described so perfectly.

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Danielle Oteri's avatar

Thank you!

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Carmen J. Romaldini's avatar

This was so, so good - in detail and in the know tips on enjoying not only Florence in general, but appreciate the context of the art. I also like your candid opinions, much appreciated when you're not sure if people are just glazing everything. I just read Rachel Cusk's "The Last Supper" and I didn't really enjoy it, you bring the art to life in a most magical way, and you say it with infective admiration. Looking forward to more episodes, plus you should publish a book on Italian art and travel.

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Danielle Oteri's avatar

Thanks Carmen! I haven't read that book, but I was curious about it, so thanks for sharing that. I've got a book proposal in the works. ;)

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Carmen J. Romaldini's avatar

I love that, please keep us posted! <3

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Maruchi Santana's avatar

Love this episode! I will stand in front of Ludovica Tornabuoni this April and think of your story!

I am planning in buying local artisan work, so no worries there.

I need your recommnedation for a goldsmith, my husband and I would like to make matching gold rings to celbrate 42 years of mariage

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Pam Diamond's avatar

I enjoyed this episode, Danielle. We are staying at the il tornabuoni hotel in Florence. Is it just named after the family or do you know if it has any history to explore?

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Danielle Oteri's avatar

Thanks, Pam! There are a few hotels and b&bs around Florence named Tornabuoni. They were a large family with many residences and real estate holdings. Likely, the hotel has some connection to them, but only the one I discussed in the podcast was where the central family lived.

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Jennifer Passudetti Jacobs's avatar

Pam - we are staying at the Il Tornabuoni (the Hyatt one) as well! Looking forward to it as the photos look beautiful. I had the same thought when I listened to this eposide.

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Pam Diamond's avatar

So excited. I have so many places saved that are a short walk from the hotel. I suspect we won’t be at a loss for things to do. What month will you be there if you don’t mind me asking?

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Jennifer Passudetti Jacobs's avatar

I’m not sure. I only joined Substack because of Danielle’s podcast. 🤣 it’s still sp new to me. I’m on insta as ctg8tr if it’s easier to chat there.

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Pam Diamond's avatar

Found you and have requested to follow. We have 3 states in common!! NC, FL and SC!!

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Pam Diamond's avatar

Same. I’ve no clue how to use it properly. I’ll look for you on instagram.

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Jennifer Passudetti Jacobs's avatar

Beginning of August! We will have to share tips!

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Pam Diamond's avatar

We are beginning of April. I can report in. Are we able to direct message?

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