Palazzo della Marescialla

Gazing at the elegant Palazzo della Marescialla, one can’t help but wonder about its past. The Palazzo della Marescialla, overlooking the Arno River, is a testament to the architectural grandeur of 18th-century Florence. The palace isn’t named after a powerful “Marescialla” or marshal’s wife as many believe. This misconception arose from a misinterpretation of the coat of arms on its facade. The real story begins with the Ducci family from Catenaia. In 1732, they commissioned architect Ferdinando Ruggieri to design their grand home. This wasn’t a mere renovation but a complete rebuild, resulting in the sprawling Palazzo della Marescialla we see today. The Ducci family’s wealth and influence are evident in the intricate details of the facade. Notice the six axes that divide the three stories, each adorned with windows framed by varying pediments. Look closely, and you’ll find seashells gracing the ground floor windows, a subtle nod to the Ducci family’s connection to the sea. Sadly, Carlo Ducci, the family patriarch, had no direct heirs. He left the Palazzo della Marescialla to his nephew, who quickly sold it to the Malavolti family. The palace’s connection to the Arno River led to significant changes in the mid-19th century. During the construction of the Lungarno Vespucci, a good portion of the Palazzo della Marescialla was demolished. Today, only the impressive facade facing the Borgo Ognissanti and a few interior rooms remain from the original structure. Although much is lost, stepping inside reveals hidden gems. One such treasure is a small gallery adorned with expansive canvases set within stucco frames. These masterpieces by Agostino Veracini offer a glimpse into the opulence that once defined the Palazzo della Marescialla.