Location and Origins
The “Casa del Boia” (House of the Executioner) is a unique four-story building located at the intersection of Via Michelangelo Buonarroti and Via San Cristofano in Florence. Its intriguing nickname comes from its historical role as the residence of the city’s official executioner, who carried out capital punishments for many years. The building stands isolated on three sides, a feature that led to the local saying, “as lonely as an executioner.”
Before the role of executioner became a permanent position, this grim task was often assigned to condemned prisoners or foreign workers brought in specifically for the purpose.
Architectural Features and Style
The building’s façade blends historical styles from different eras. The ground floor reflects sixteenth-century architectural elements, with robust stone blocks forming its base. However, the upper floors feature design elements typical of construction from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, likely added during a major renovation.
Notable details include two engraved dates:
- 1547: Found on a stone near the corner with Via San Cristofano, this date likely refers to the height of the Arno River during the catastrophic flood of that year.
- 1915: Inscribed on one of the newer stones, this date marks the period when the building underwent significant renovations, transforming it into a historic attraction.
Cultural Significance
Once shrouded in dark associations, the Casa del Boia became a curiosity for tourists during the early 20th century. Its mysterious history, coupled with its striking architecture, makes it a fascinating stop for those exploring Florence’s lesser-known corners.
Whether you’re drawn by its past or its unique design, the Casa del Boia offers a glimpse into a side of Florence steeped in both history and folklore.
