Florence holds a lesser-known connection to one of history’s most influential figures in modern medicine: Florence Nightingale, whose very name was chosen in honour of the city of her birth.
Born in Florence, 1820
Florence Nightingale was born in the city in 1820 to a wealthy British family travelling in Italy, and was named after her birthplace — a detail recorded on her Wikipedia biography. She would go on to found modern nursing practice during the Crimean War.
Her final resting place
Despite her Florentine birth, Nightingale is buried in St Margaret’s churchyard in East Wellow, Hampshire, England, according to her own wishes for a modest family burial.
Frequently asked questions
Why was Florence Nightingale named after the city?
She was born there in 1820 while her family was travelling in Italy, and was named in honour of her birthplace, following a common custom of the time.
Is Florence Nightingale buried in Florence, Italy?
No — she is buried in East Wellow, Hampshire, England, in accordance with her wishes for a private family burial.
Our concierge can point you toward the quarter of the city where Nightingale was born, a quiet footnote in Florence’s long history.
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