In the Piazza del Duomo of Florence the main attraction is Santa Maria del Fiore, the city’s iconic red-domed cathedral. (If you look closely at the photo below, you can see the green and white marble of the church reflected in the shop window.)
If you are a lover of books and the Italian language, you may also be drawn to this local libreria (bookstore, not to be confused with a library – biblioteca).
I always relish the chance to take a break from the tourist’s schedule and wander through a libreria whenever they present themselves. Filled with colorful books in the language I covet, and typically cool and serene, they are a welcome rest for fatigued travelers.
Prayers & Piazzas 
I agree! It is such a fun experience to pursue the books in the Italian bookstores. 🙂
Do bookstores tend to be crowded in Italy? Are they popular hangouts?
What a great question! I have found that bookstores are pretty quiet and other patrons tend to be locals. A welcome break from summer crowds! Hope you are well.
Keeping food out of the equation my two favorite places on earth are churches and bookstores!!
I definitely agree with you, Bonnie!