Discover the Florence Lombard Defensive Towers
In the context of Late Antiquity and the Early Middle Ages, the area around Florence experienced significant political and military transformations following the Lombard invasion of Italy in 568 AD. The conquest of Tuscia (modern-day Tuscany) by the Lombards was not merely a military event; rather, it triggered a profound reorganization of the territory. This was strategically based on defensive outposts known as wardingos, or “guardingi”, which were small fortifications or military garrisons positioned at key points to ensure territorial control and security. This is where the history of the Florence Lombard Defensive Towers begins.
A Lombard Legacy in Florence
According to historical land registry documents and ancient maps, the current Piazza San Jacopino—specifically at the corner of Via Cassia and Via Bartolomeo Cristofori—hosts a structure with a vertical plan. Commonly recognized as a late-medieval tower, this building is clearly documented starting from the 12th century. However, recent studies suggest that its story may be even older, connecting directly to the Florence Lombard Defensive Towers legacy.
Evidence of Lombard Origins
In fact, the analysis of construction techniques—such as squared stone blocks, the use of local materials bound with lime, and the examination of successive architectural layers—has led some scholars to propose a much earlier origin. More precisely, it is highly plausible that the tower predates the medieval period and dates back to the Lombard era. This discovery aligns with the broader network of the Florence Lombard Defensive Towers, designed to protect the surrounding countryside.
Moreover, this hypothesis suggests that the tower underwent multiple structural modifications over the centuries. Its height, volume, and functional purpose were gradually adapted, yet the original core could indeed trace back to between the 7th and 8th centuries. This corresponds exactly to the period when the Lombards consolidated their defensive infrastructure in the Florentine region.
Why the Florence Lombard Defensive Towers Matter
Understanding the importance of the Florence Lombard Defensive Towers sheds light on how Florence evolved from a simple settlement into a strategically fortified area. This lesser-known chapter of Florence’s history is a testament to the city’s resilience and adaptability throughout the centuries.
If you are interested in learning more about the Lombard presence in Tuscany, consider visiting these useful resources:
- Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Firenze — Offers exhibitions on early medieval Tuscany.
- Florence City Official Tourism — Learn more about hidden historical sites in Florence.
- Visit Tuscany – Lombards in Tuscany — Discover the history of the Lombards across the region.
- Florence Urban Archaeology — Insights into Florence’s archaeological discoveries.
