Chiesa di Sant’Egidio

What secrets lie hidden behind these unassuming walls? Right before you stands the Chiesa di Sant’Egidio, a seemingly modest church tucked into the bustling heart of Florence. Don’t let its simplicity fool you. The Chiesa di Sant’Egidio boasts a rich and fascinating history, interwoven with tales of powerful families, artistic triumphs, and even a touch of scandal. The church we see today is a result of a 16th-century redesign. But its roots run much deeper, going all the way back to the 13th century. It was then that a wealthy Florentine, Folco Portinari, the very same man who fathered Dante’s beloved Beatrice, established the Hospital of Santa Maria Nuova. The Chiesa di Sant’Egidio became an integral part of this hospital. Over time, the Chiesa di Sant’Egidio became a haven for art and devotion, adorned with magnificent works that awed all who entered. The Portinari family, deeply connected to the church, commissioned a grand six-panel fresco cycle depicting the Life of the Virgin. These frescoes were no ordinary artwork. They were entrusted to some of the greatest artistic minds of the time – Domenico Veneziano, Piero della Francesca, Bicci di Lorenzo, and Andrea del Castagno. Can you imagine the sheer skill and artistry that went into creating these masterpieces? However, like many artistic endeavors, the creation of these frescoes was not without drama. Legend has it that Andrea del Castagno, consumed by envy for Domenico Veneziano’s talent, murdered him. While this tale has since been debunked, it adds another layer of intrigue to the Chiesa di Sant’Egidio’s story. Though those particular frescoes are lost, the Chiesa di Sant’Egidio still holds treasures within. Look up. See that terracotta lunette over the entrance? It’s a copy of a piece by Dello Delli. The original resides in the hospital museum. Step inside, and you’ll find a double-tier nun’s gallery, a rarity in itself. The church also houses the earliest surviving Eucharistic tabernacle in all of Florence, a testament to its enduring sanctity. The Chiesa di Sant’Egidio might not be as grandiose as some of Florence’s other architectural marvels. Yet its humble facade conceals a captivating tapestry of history, artistry, and faith, whispering tales of Florence’s glorious past to those who listen closely.