Who Was Zoroastro da Peretola?
Tommaso Masini, known as Zoroastro da Peretola, was a 15th–16th century Florentine alchemist, astrologer, and polymath. A close collaborator of Leonardo da Vinci, he played a pivotal role in some of Leonardo’s most daring experiments, including early attempts at human flight.
Early Life and Name
- Origins: Born in Peretola, a Florentine suburb known for vegetable farming.
- Pseudonym: Adopted the name “Zoroastro” to align with mystical traditions and elevate his modest roots.
- Patronage: Claimed to be the illegitimate son of the wealthy Bernardo Rucellai, which helped him gain social status and connections.
Collaboration with Leonardo da Vinci
- Florence and Milan: Worked alongside Leonardo in Milan at the Court of Sforza and later in Florence during the creation of The Battle of Anghiari fresco.
- Role in Alchemy and Mechanics: Prepared pigments and tempera for Leonardo’s projects using alchemical methods.
The Flight Experiment on Monte Ceceri
- Designing the Machine: Zoroastro helped build and test Leonardo’s “flying machine,” likely an ornithopter.
- The Test Flight: On Monte Ceceri, near Fiesole, Zoroastro courageously piloted the device. Historical accounts suggest the machine glided for about 1,000 meters before crash-landing near Camerata.
- Aftermath: Despite dramatic exaggerations of severe injuries, Zoroastro reportedly recovered quickly and returned to social life unscathed.
Legacy and Recognition
- Unsung Pioneer: Often overshadowed by Leonardo, Zoroastro was a trailblazer in the history of flight.
- Florentine Honor: While the Florence airport was named after Amerigo Vespucci, Zoroastro’s contributions are commemorated with a street, Viale Zoroastro da Peretola, near the airport.
