Florence has introduced Firenze in rilievo, a new Braille and tactile guide that allows blind and visually impaired visitors to explore the city’s UNESCO World Heritage monuments through touch. The project was presented at the international conference Low Vision 2025, held at the Palazzo dei Congressi.
The two-volume publication transforms Florence into a sensory experience, featuring three-dimensional panels of the city’s most iconic landmarks accompanied by Braille texts. Each tactile map enables readers to “read” the city’s architectural beauty with their hands.
To complement the printed volumes, each panel integrates a QR code linking to FeelFlorence.it, the official tourism portal. Online visitors can access detailed descriptions of monuments, practical information on opening hours and accessibility, and dedicated tactile itineraries designed for inclusive travel.
The guide was developed by the University of Florence’s didacommunicationlab in collaboration with the Italian Union of the Blind and Visually Impaired (UICI) and the Fondazione Destination Florence, with support from the Ministry of Tourism. Copies will be distributed free of charge at the Firenze Welcome Center and through UICI’s national network.
The initiative is part of a broader effort to make Florence a more inclusive city and a more sustainable destination. It demonstrates how international congresses can leave lasting legacies for residents and visitors alike, helping ensure that the cultural richness of the Renaissance city is truly accessible to everyone.
Support Florence Daily News
Florence Daily News is an independent news site covering the stories, culture, and life of Florence and Tuscany. We don’t rely on clickbait, invasive or hidden advertising, or paywalls. Instead, we believe in quality journalism that respects our readers and serves those who care about thoughtful, local reporting.
If you value our work, consider supporting us with a donation.
Donate securely via Stripe below.
Make a one-time donation
Make a monthly donation
Make a yearly donation
Choose an amount
Or enter a custom amount
Your contribution is appreciated.
Your contribution is appreciated.
Your contribution is appreciated.
DonateDonate monthlyDonate yearly