The Historic Palazzo Doni: A Renaissance Treasure in Florence
Palazzo Doni is a historic building in Florence, located at Corso Tintori 4, on the corner of Via Magliabechi. This Renaissance residence holds deep artistic and historical significance, linking it to two of the greatest masters of the Italian Renaissance: Raphael and Michelangelo.
The Origins of Palazzo Doni and Its Connection to Raphael and Michelangelo
The Palazzo Doni was originally built in the late 15th century to celebrate the marriage of Agnolo Doni and Maddalena Strozzi, a prominent couple in Florentine society. This event connected the building to some of the most remarkable artistic achievements of the early 16th century.
According to a commemorative plaque placed in 1875 by Mario Foresi, Raphael was hosted in this very house while painting the portraits of Agnolo Doni and Maddalena Strozzi, now displayed in the Palatine Gallery of the Pitti Palace. Likewise, Michelangelo is said to have created the Tondo Doni, his famous painting of the Holy Family, while working for the Doni family. Today, this masterpiece is housed in the Uffizi Gallery.
Palazzo Doni in the 19th Century: The Fenzi and Foresi Families
During the early 19th century, Palazzo Doni became the property of the Fenzi banking family, who enhanced its interior with neoclassical decorations and marble fireplaces. Later, the building passed to the Foresi family, who undertook a significant restoration.
Mario Foresi placed a historical plaque inside the building, which reads:
IN THIS HOUSE, BUILT BY AGNOLO DONI AND HIS WIFE MADDALENA STROZZI, RAFFAELLO SANZIO WAS HOSTED IN 1505 WHILE PAINTING THEIR PORTRAITS. MARIO FORESI PLACED THIS IN 1875, RESTORING THE PROPERTY.
Another plaque, installed by Raffaello Foresi, a writer and journalist from Elba, features a famous Italian proverb:
“Friends, enemies / Relatives, serpents / Cousins, assassins / Brothers, knives.”
This phrase reflects the sharp wit and humor that characterized Foresi’s work and personality.
The Architectural Evolution of Palazzo Doni
Due to the construction of the National Library of Florence, Palazzo Doni was partially reduced in size, losing part of its courtyard. The remaining open space, now enclosed by a gate, faces Via Magliabechi.
For many years, the ground-floor rooms on this street housed the Margua antique gallery, which displayed a variety of ancient marble sculptures in its courtyard, enhancing the palace’s historic charm.
The Curious Faces of Palazzo Doni: A Unique Detail in Corso Tintori
Despite its rich history, Palazzo Doni presents an eclectic 19th-century façade on Corso Tintori, likely attributed to the Foresi family. One of the most intriguing features is the series of sculpted faces adorning the window architraves of the noble floor. These faces include:
- A satyr
- A classical deity with wings
- A man wearing theatrical masks
- A man with a turban and mustache
- A man with simple mustache
- A man with Egyptian features
- A man with glasses
These whimsical elements reflect the eccentric personality of Raffaello Foresi, making Palazzo Doni in Florence one of the city’s most fascinating and lesser-known artistic curiosities.
Discovering Palazzo Doni in Florence: A Hidden Gem of the Renaissance
Palazzo Doni in Florence is more than just a historic building—it is a testament to the city’s rich artistic legacy. If you are visiting Florence, take a moment to explore Corso Tintori and discover this hidden treasure. The unique sculptures, historical connections to Raphael and Michelangelo, and its fascinating restoration history make it a must-see for art and history enthusiasts.
