The Arco di San Pierino: A Medieval Gateway in Florence
The Arco di San Pierino, also known as the Volta di San Piero, is a fascinating medieval city gate in Florence dating back to the 12th century. Located at the intersection of Piazza San Pier Maggiore and Via dell’Oriuolo near Via Sant’Egidio and Borgo Pinti, this archway was once an integral part of Florence’s ancient city walls. Constructed in pietraforte (a Tuscan sandstone) and with exposed masonry, the arch remains a striking example of medieval architecture in Florence.
Historical Significance of the Arco di San Pierino
Built between 1173 and 1175, the Arco di San Pierino was strategically positioned where Florence’s old city walls turned southward toward the Arno River. It is believed that this arch once housed the Postierla degli Albertinelli, a smaller gate named after the Albertinelli family, whose homes were located nearby. This postern gate was guarded by the Torre dei Pazzi di Valdarno, a Pazzi family tower whose remnants can still be seen at Borgo Albizi 30.
Originally a defensive structure, the archway once featured ceiling trapdoors—some of which survive today, albeit sealed, with one wooden cover still intact. The Pazzi family’s emblem was displayed on the Via dell’Oriuolo side, though it is now weathered and illegible.
The Arco di San Pierino’s Transformation and Cultural Evolution
Over the centuries, the Arco di San Pierino transformed from a defensive gate to a bustling part of Florence’s street life. Local food vendors and wine shops began setting up stalls under the arch, selling everything from fried foods to tripe, creating a lively marketplace atmosphere. Some of these traditional food stalls are still active today, providing visitors with an authentic taste of Florence’s culinary history. The arch and its vibrant street culture were famously depicted by the Italian writer Bruno Cicognani in his book La Cantiflora.
A Modern Renaissance: The Restoration of Piazza San Pier Maggiore and the Arco di San Pierino
In 2008, Piazza San Pier Maggiore and the Arco di San Pierino underwent a comprehensive restoration that included upgrades to both the pavement and lighting, enhancing the ambiance of this historical passageway. Today, visitors can walk through the arch and experience a blend of Florence’s medieval past and lively present.
Visiting the Arco di San Pierino in Florence
A visit to the Arco di San Pierino offers an immersive journey into Florence’s medieval heritage. This passageway, with its ancient masonry, trapdoors, and bustling food stalls, remains a popular yet lesser-known attraction. Strolling through this historic gateway, visitors can imagine Florence’s city walls and medieval defenses, connecting the vibrant culture of the past with the present.
