Tucked away in the charming outskirts of Florence, in the quaint little neighborhood of Brozzi, stands the unassuming yet captivating Santa Lucia alla Sala. Don’t let its simplicity fool you, for this church holds within its walls a story as old as time itself. The name Santa Lucia alla Sala itself hints at its long history. “Sala” harks back to the Lombard era, referring to a fortified hamlet or village, suggesting a time when this area was a hub of activity. Records indicate that a church stood on this very spot as far back as the 11th century, eventually undergoing a significant reconstruction in the 13th century. Imagine the powerful families like the Tornaquinci, Corbinelli, Ricciardi, and Niccolini, who once held sway in Florence, lending their patronage to this humble place of worship. Their legacies were once intertwined with Santa Lucia alla Sala. Sadly, the ravages of war did not spare this sanctuary. In August 1944, during the tumultuous events of World War II, the original Santa Lucia alla Sala was reduced to rubble by German mines. But from the ashes of destruction, hope always arises. The people of Brozzi, determined to rebuild their beloved church, enlisted the help of architect Primo Saccardi. His vision took shape in the postwar years, culminating in the Santa Lucia alla Sala you see today, consecrated in 1950. Although much was lost in the destruction, fragments of the church’s past still remain. Look closely and you’ll discover the ciborium and a small tabernacle, exquisite remnants of Giuliano da Maiano’s school, whispering tales of a bygone era. The tomb slab of Bartolomeo Corbinelli, who passed away in 1408, also found its final resting place within these walls, a poignant reminder of the passage of time and the enduring connection between Santa Lucia alla Sala and the community it served.
Santa Lucia alla Castellina
“A sanctuary of art and faith””. You might say that about many places, but here at Santa Lucia alla Castellina,