Tomorrow, Emily Carter and James Walker arrive in Florence to begin a journey that will take them across Italy for more than a month. When they reached out asking me to design their first 10–12 day Tuscany itinerary, I immediately said yes—because I knew this wouldn’t just be a trip, but a story unfolding day by day.
Since their arrival coincides with Easter, there was one experience I knew had to be part of their journey: the legendary Scoppio del Carro. More than just a spectacle, this centuries-old Florentine tradition blends faith, history, and celebration into one unforgettable moment.
The event takes place in Piazza del Duomo on Easter Sunday morning, but its origins date back to the time of the First Crusade. According to legend, Pazzino dei Pazzi returned from Jerusalem with three sacred stones, gifted by Godfrey of Bouillon as a reward for his bravery in battle. These stones are still used today to light the holy fire—a symbol of resurrection and renewal.
On Easter morning, one of the most anticipated moments unfolds as the historic Brindellone, a towering, elaborately decorated cart, is pulled into the square by white oxen adorned with flowers. At exactly 11 a.m., during the singing of “Gloria,” a mechanical dove—the “colombina”—flies from inside the cathedral toward the cart, igniting a spectacular sequence of fireworks. If the dove completes its journey and returns smoothly, it is said to bring good luck to Florence for the year ahead.
Just before the main spectacle, around 10:15 a.m., another uniquely Florentine tradition takes place: the draw of the historic teams of Calcio Storico Fiorentino. This centuries-old form of football—part sport, part ritual—returns every June in Piazza Santa Croce, but its match pairings are ceremonially announced during Easter celebrations. It’s a lesser-known moment for visitors, yet one that locals follow with great excitement, adding another layer of authenticity to the morning.
And of course, Easter in Italy wouldn’t be complete without something sweet. On their very first morning, Emily and James will taste the traditional Colomba—a soft, dove-shaped cake topped with almonds and sugar glaze. The word “colomba” means dove, symbolizing peace and rebirth, perfectly echoing the spirit of the Scoppio del Carro. A slice of freshly baked colomba paired with a strong Italian coffee, as the city prepares for the celebration—there’s no more authentic way to begin a Tuscan adventure.
This is more than a visual event; it’s an emotional connection to Florence’s past and present. For Emily and James, it will be their first true Italian moment—one where they are not just visitors, but part of something deeply rooted in local life.
In the days that follow, we’ll explore Tuscany beyond the obvious—combining iconic destinations with hidden gems, quiet villages, family-run wineries, and stories you won’t find in guidebooks. There are even places on this itinerary that I haven’t visited yet, which makes this journey just as exciting for me.
We’ll be sharing every step of this experience, so if you’re curious about authentic Tuscany, behind-the-scenes moments, and real travel stories, make sure to follow along at @wondersoftheworl_italy. This is more than an itinerary—it’s a journey you can feel.