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Florence Free Tour-Florence Resists with Pride

A Symbolic Act of Defiance During the Imperial Siege of 1529

In the heart of the Imperial siege, on October 27, 1529, Florence resists with pride through one of the most dramatic and symbolic acts of defiance in its long history: the event known as L’Incamiciata—”the shirted sortie.”

The Provocative Sortie

Under orders from the Florentine government, known as the Signoria, the city’s commander Malatesta Baglioni orchestrated a bold and theatrical sortie from the bastions of Florence. Accompanied by musicians and trumpeters, the small group paraded toward the enemy camp at San Miniato, blaring martial tunes and patriotic hymns into the night air. This performance, rather than a military strike, was a direct provocation meant to rattle and mock the besieging Imperial forces.

This moment, once again, proves how Florence resists with pride, not only through arms but also through symbolic and psychological warfare.

A Daring Challenge

To heighten the insult, a lone Florentine trumpeter was dispatched directly to the enemy commander—the Prince of Orange—bearing a challenge to single combat. The silence of the imperial commander in response to this gesture did not go unnoticed. On the contrary, it deepened the humiliation for the invaders and fueled the bold spirit of the Florentine people.

Immediately after, as if to underline the message, over 150 artillery pieces roared from the city’s walls in perfect unison. The thunderous sound echoed through the Arno Valley, reinforcing the message that Florence resists with pride, no matter the odds.

A Moral Victory

Although the Incamiciata had no significant strategic impact on the outcome of the siege, it was an immense boost to Florentine morale. It reaffirmed the city’s refusal to surrender and became a lasting symbol of resistance, courage, and unity in the face of overwhelming adversity.

Today, this event remains etched in the collective memory of the city—a testament to how Florence resists with pride not just with weapons, but with spirit.

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