Exploring Val di Lamona Street: A Historical Gem in Florence
Located near Palazzo di Parte Guelfa on Via Pellicceria, you’ll find the 19th-century Palazzo dei Portici’s loggia behind you. Ahead lies a tiny street leading to the loggia of the New Market (Porcellino Market). The name “Val di Lamona” might remind you of several mountain resorts in northern Italy, but this small lane in the heart of Florence has a unique history.
To understand the name, we must journey back to the 15th-century conflict era, dominated by Ventura’s companies. The name “Val di Lamona” is tied to a battle in the valley by the Lamone River. In February 1425, young commander Oddo of Fortebracci led an army under Niccolò Piccinino in the strategically significant Marradi area. Their goal was to prevent Visconti raids by Agnolo della Pergola. Instead of positioning near the bridge, Fortebracci’s and Piccinino’s soldiers, serving the Republic of Florence, began plundering the nearby districts.
In the ensuing chaos, Oddo of Fortebracci was slain while fighting bravely. Historian Lorenzo Spirito Gualtieri describes, “He was for the valley the Giovin dead/ with a spear at the hands of a villain.” Both Niccolò Piccinino and Niccolò from Tolentino were captured. Some historians accused Piccinino of delaying troop deployment out of jealousy toward the young commander. This intriguing historical event likely inspired the naming of Val di Lamona street in Florence.
Explore this historical gem and uncover the rich tales that contribute to Florence’s fascinating toponymy.
