What stories could this unassuming church tell, nestled in the heart of Peretola, a suburb of Florence? This is the Chiesa di Santa Maria a Peretola, a place where centuries of history have unfolded. The Chiesa di Santa Maria a Peretola whispers tales of a time long past, its origins reaching back to the 12th century. While time has gracefully aged its facade, you can still discern the echoes of its Romanesque beginnings. The church proudly bears the mark of both time and influence. From 1449 to 1787, it fell under the watchful eyes of the renowned Ospedale di Santa Maria Nuova. This period wasn’t merely administrative; it was a time of artistic enrichment as the hospital bestowed upon the Chiesa di Santa Maria a Peretola a trove of art. Look closely, and you’ll discover the hospital’s emblem etched high on the facade: a crutch resting upon a red support, all set against a golden field. Above the doorway, a 14th-century fresco of the Madonna and Child welcomes you, a masterpiece by an unknown artist. Step inside, and your gaze will be drawn to an artistic marvel. In the presbytery stands a glazed terracotta, marble, and bronze ciborium, a creation of Luca della Robbia dating back to 1443. This masterpiece marks a pivotal moment in art history, for it stands as the inaugural example of Della Robbia’s famed glazed majolica technique. The Chiesa di Santa Maria a Peretola stands as a testament to the enduring power of art and faith, whispering tales of Florence’s vibrant past.
Santa Lucia alla Castellina
“A sanctuary of art and faith””. You might say that about many places, but here at Santa Lucia alla Castellina,