By Sydney Pogue
Nestled amongst the quaint, Florentine buildings on a sequestered side street off of Piazza Toquestro Tasso lies a Hostel. Opened in 2012, Ostello Tasso has quickly gained popularity from both locals and tourists alike. Boasting a beautiful theater space, 13 stylized rooms and even a garden, on first impression it would make sense as to why this hostel has gained such intrigue.
Just as Florence is a foster of the arts, Ostello Tasso follows suit and upholds that tradition specializing in what they like to call the “Art of Accommodation.” Some of what would be arguably the most desirable qualities for a weary backpacker trekking their way through Italy. As an added bonus, the hostel provides a free and complimentary Italian breakfast, just to ensure you start your day of exploration on the right foot, both in mood and cultural palate.
But Ostello Tasso’s mantra goes deeper than the surface level pleasantries of good hospitality. In this spirit , Ostello Tasso made the decision to host multiple events in the arts, ranging from music to film and everything in between. However, it’s not the classic murals of medieval noblemen or the renowned works of Da Vinci. It is the work of local artists, singers, and composers. On nights that fall between Thursday and Sunday each week, the hostel dedicates itself to hosting “Movie nights”, “Poetry readings”, “Live music”, and “Theater”, amongst other facets of entertainment. This enthusiasm even follows into the next morning, where multilingual staff aid you in discovering the world of art outside of the hostel, whether it be helping you with directions to the Statue of David or providing insight regarding the local tours of the city. For all of their endeavors, Ostello Tasso justifies their efforts by saying, “Tasso hostel believes in promoting its local and international musicians, poets, filmmakers, fashion designers and artists, with an alternative and vibrant space that embraces creative expression along with an exchange of innovative ideas”.
In this way, Ostello Tasso seems to truly ebody what is at the heart of any art movement; a passion of promoting art from any medium while appreciating its unique nature, simultaneously giving the work notoriety while allowing artists the opportunity to convey a greater message to the Florentine community and beyond.
So for anyone looking for a place to stay the night while wandering the streets of Florence, take into consideration Ostello Tasso. You will not only be able to enjoy a comfortable stay and enjoyment of the local arts, but may be able to also make new friends with people who share the same appreciation of culture and adventure as you.