Once upon a time the space that is now called the English Cemetery in Florence was just an empty field or bit of forest. It lay outside the Medieval city walls of Florence, and eventually became a burial ground for non Catholics. Over time it became known as the English Cemetery, although those buried here are from all nationalities, including American. Hiram Powers, the American neoclassical sculptor, is interred here (in a very modest tomb, btw), for example.

This serene space is surrounded by high metal fencing from the 19th century and is open on a very idiosyncratic schedule. And now, this part of the city is torn asunder by the work for the upcoming tram system. It seemed bad enough that the Piazza Donatello, which is the area in which the cemetery is located, had become a major traffic artery with cars and trucks and motorcycles zooming around the cemetery non stop 24/7, but now there will be a tram system too. At least it is quiet.

Once you enter this cemetery/garden, it is large enough and there are trees enough to make you feel isolated from the city and with the sense that you are in a very special space. May it always be thus.

Elizabeth Barrett Browning is buried here and her tomb is one of the most elegant and elaborate within the cemetery.

Set in intarsia in contrasting black marble are the letters: OB and the date 1861. This is an abbreviation for the Latin word obiit, which translates to “he/she died.”

Her initials also strikingly set against the white marble of the tomb.

My friends Stu and Steph visited this serene locale with me that day.

In about a month, the iris plants will be in full bloom. I spotted this early bird.

Among the most lovely of all early spring blossoms to my mind is the flowering quince. It was in full flower in the cemetery this day. The coral color is almost neon! How heartwarming! Welcome spring!

A beautiful visit in a lovely place in a grand city. Alla prossima!