{"id":3473,"date":"2025-07-25T06:36:00","date_gmt":"2025-07-25T04:36:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bestfreetour.com\/?p=3473"},"modified":"2025-07-14T00:16:07","modified_gmt":"2025-07-13T22:16:07","slug":"bozza-automaticahidden-corners-of-florence","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bestfreetour.com\/it\/2025\/07\/25\/bozza-automaticahidden-corners-of-florence\/","title":{"rendered":"Hidden Corners of Florence"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
\"Florence
Florence Free Tour-Hidden Corners of Florence<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

In the heart of Florence\u2019s historic center, at 22 Borgo Albizzi, lies a forgotten gem. This is the Palazzo Pazzi at the Volta dei Ciechi<\/strong>. It\u2019s one of the many Hidden Corners of Florence<\/strong>, filled with history for those who stop to notice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A Palace with Medieval Origins<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The palace stands on earlier 14th-century foundations. This is clear from the filaretto<\/em> stonework on the ground floor. These horizontal rows of squared stones are typical of medieval Florence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the building\u2019s current appearance reflects later renovations. These changes almost completely reshaped it. Yet, some original features have survived. Like many Hidden Corners of Florence<\/strong>, the structure reveals layers of history.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Name: A Clue from the Past<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

One fascinating detail is the name itself: Volta dei Ciechi<\/em>, or \u201cArch of the Blind.\u201d It refers to a covered passage. This connects Borgo Albizzi with the small, quiet Piazza de\u2019 Pazzi<\/strong>, which was once the rear courtyard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to local tradition, the name comes from an old tavern in the Pazzi courtyard. It was frequented by blind men and beggars. This was a simple, modest spot\u2014offering shelter and food. The name preserves a trace of forgotten urban life. Once again, we find the humanity that often hides in the Hidden Corners of Florence<\/strong>.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Symbols that Speak of Nobility<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

A coat of arms still decorates the fa\u00e7ade. It belongs to the historic Pazzi family<\/strong>. On a blue background, two upright dolphins face each other. Around them, five small flowered crosses complete the design.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The same emblem appears above the arch. It once marked the entrance to the family\u2019s courtyard. In fact, the space now called Piazza de\u2019 Pazzi<\/strong> was part of the Pazzi property. Today, it is partially absorbed by the neighboring Palazzo Valori<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This noble symbol remains as a reminder. In these Hidden Corners of Florence<\/strong>, heraldry still whispers stories of past grandeur.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An Ancient Order Carved in Stone<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

A stone plaque dated 1619<\/strong> hangs under the arch. It was placed there by the Signori Otto di Guardia e Balia<\/em>, a former city magistracy. The order forbids making \u201cany kind of filth\u201d and especially urinating in the passage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Clearly, Florence once kept strict control over public spaces. Even remote alleys were subject to civic order. This plaque is a vivid example of how Hidden Corners of Florence<\/strong> were not forgotten by the city\u2019s authorities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A Small World of Urban Memory<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The Palazzo Pazzi at the Volta dei Ciechi<\/strong> is much more than an old building. It is a meeting point between noble history and everyday life. Heraldry, civic laws, medieval architecture, and forgotten people all come together here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In short, this space reflects Florence\u2019s complexity. It reminds us that small places often hold the biggest stories. The Hidden Corners of Florence<\/strong> are waiting to be rediscovered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Discover More Hidden Corners<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n