How to Visit the Florence American Cemetery in Italy begins with understanding why this peaceful hillside just south of Florence holds such deep meaning. This World War II cemetery honors over 4,000 American soldiers who lost their lives during the Italian campaign.
Surrounded by cypress trees and Tuscan hills, it’s more than a burial site—it’s a quiet space for reflection, remembrance, and gratitude. Whether you’re visiting for historical interest or personal reasons, this site offers a powerful and moving experience just a short drive from Florence.
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Even if cemeteries aren’t usually on your travel list, this one is worth making time for. It’s a humbling and beautiful reminder of the cost of freedom.
This Incredible Place…
This is the second time Gary and I have had the opportunity to visit this site. It was a very hot day, and when our driver opened the doors and I stepped out onto the large marble platform… I got goosebumps.
Set across 70 rolling acres of Tuscan countryside, the cemetery is immaculately maintained. The American Battle Monuments Commission manages it, the U.S. government agency responsible for overseas military cemeteries and memorials. More than 4,392 American soldiers are buried here, most of whom died between Rome’s liberation in June 1944 and the war’s end in May 1945, during the final push through northern Italy.
The centerpiece of the site is the Memorial, which includes a small chapel, two map rooms with detailed reliefs showing the military operations in Italy, and the Tablets of the Missing, where the names of over 1,400 missing service members are engraved. Rosettes mark the names of those later recovered and identified. It’s incredibly moving to walk along these walls, reading name after name, imagining the young lives lost so far from home.
“Time will not dim the glory of their deeds.”
– General of the Armies, John J. Pershing
The Atmosphere and Setting
The rows of white crosses and Stars of David stretch out in perfect formation across gently sloping lawns. Cypress trees and perfectly trimmed hedges add to the quiet dignity. The entire space is designed to feel both solemn and serene. You don’t feel overwhelmed here—it’s more like you’re being invited to slow down, reflect, and pay your respects.
If You Plan to Visit the Florence American Cemetery
- Location: Via Cassia, about 12 km (7.5 miles) south of Florence city center. Easy to reach by car or taxi.
- Parking: There’s free on-site parking just outside the gates.
- Opening Hours: Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed only on New Year’s Day and Christmas Day.
- Admission: Free, and there’s no need to book ahead.
- Facilities: A small visitor building with basic information is located near the entrance. There are clean restrooms available.
Good to Know:
- Dress respectfully—it is a cemetery and an active memorial site.
- Photos are allowed
- You can request a guided tour or even search for a specific soldier if you’re visiting with a family connection.
- The staff is helpful, often American, and happy to answer questions.
Why It Matters
Finally, it’s easy to get caught up in the beauty of Tuscany—the vineyards, the hill towns, the Renaissance art. But visiting a place like the Florence American Cemetery adds a layer of depth to your experience in Italy. These were young people, many in their teens and twenties, who never made it home. What’s more… their sacrifice helped shape the future of Europe—and it’s honored here, beautifully and quietly, every single day.
Personal Reflection of Florence American Cemetery
In conclusion, more than likely, you’ve had a family member fight in WWII. If not, I’m sure you’ve known someone. Whether you spend 20 minutes or two hours, it’s the kind of place that invites stillness. You’ll likely see very few other visitors. The quiet is part of the experience.
For more information on this site and other ABMC commemorative sites, please visit.
We have also visited a beautiful cemetery in the Chieti region called Sangro River War Cemetery, I believe the city is Torino di Sangro (CH) It’s very similar to the one you’ve described, but not all American however it’s every bit as quiet and beautiful. Italian cemeteries in small towns are also fascinating to me. They are both beautiful and reverent at the same time.
Thank you so much, Patricia for letting us know about a cemetery you discovered. It’s always great to share additional information with our readers! Appreciate the info!
We did a 29 day road trip around Italy in 2023 and were made aware of this cemetery by the concierge at our hotel in Florence. After Florence we spent 3 nights in Greve in Chianti and visited the cemetery in a light rain (which added to the solemnity) on our way from there to San Marino. It is a beautiful place that honors those who paid the ultimate price so we could be free. I noticed that the flags were at half staff when we were there and then realized it was June 6, the anniversary of D Day.
Wow… Dennis – quite something to see the flags at half staff, I bet. I didn’t realize they would do that there but in thinking… why wouldn’t they? Great to know and thanks so much for the comment!