“Can you imagine this church standing here for over 1300 years?”, you might ask, gazing at the San Bartolo a Cintoia. This unassuming yet captivating church, nestled in the Cintoia district of Florence, has borne witness to centuries of Florentine history. Its story begins long ago, with the first documented mention appearing as early as 723.
The San Bartolo a Cintoia that stands before us today, however, largely dates back to a reconstruction in 1304. This date is preserved in a Gothic inscription, a silent testament to the church’s enduring legacy. The inscription, now residing in the sacristy, serves as a tangible link to that era. While the renovations transformed the church, traces of its early structure remain. The original nave and the steadfast campanile stand as echoes of the past, whispering tales of bygone days.
Step inside, and you’ll find yourself enveloped in the elegance of the 19th century. The church’s current appearance reflects an 1884 renovation, with a ceiling adorned by the monochromatic artistry of Luigi Ademollo. Look beyond the grandeur, however, and you’ll discover a treasure from an earlier time: the altarpiece. Painted by Neri di Bicci in 1467, this masterpiece captures the “Incoronation of the Virgin and Saints”, a testament to the enduring power of religious art.
And that’s not all. As you enter the church, cast your eyes upon the atrium. There, a 14th-century fresco graces the wall, depicting the Madonna and saints. This poignant work of art was originally part of a nearby shrine before finding its home within the protective embrace of San Bartolo a Cintoia. Even the exterior holds hidden gems. In 1986, a terracotta relief sculpted by Ugo Bellini, portraying Saint Bartholomew, was installed. This detail, though seemingly small, adds another layer to the rich tapestry of the church’s history. Each element, from the grand architecture to the intricate artworks, intertwines to narrate the captivating story of San Bartolo a Cintoia, a story whispering through the ages.