This scarce Plan of Florence with its recent expansion, provides a detailed depiction of Florence in 1876, during a period of significant urban transformation. The map captures the city’s evolving layout, illustrating its streets, major landmarks, and expanding infrastructure, reflecting both its rich history and modernization efforts following its role as the capital of Italy from 1865 to 1871.
At the center of the map is the iconic Duomo di Santa Maria del Fiore, Florence’s cathedral, with its magnificent dome by Brunelleschi dominating the cityscape. Nearby is the Piazza della Signoria, the historic civic heart of Florence, where the Palazzo Vecchio stands as a symbol of the city’s political heritage. Also depicted is the Ponte Vecchio, the medieval bridge spanning the Arno River, renowned for its bustling shops and enduring significance as a hub of commerce and connection.
The map highlights several ecclesiastical landmarks, such as Santa Croce, famous as the burial place of notable figures like Michelangelo and Galileo, and Santa Maria Novella, an architectural masterpiece combining Gothic and Renaissance elements.
Prominent civic and cultural institutions are also represented, such as the Biblioteca Nazionale, Florence’s National Library, located near the Arno River. This institution played a crucial role in preserving the city’s literary and historical legacy. Similarly, the Palazzo Strozzi, a Renaissance palace, reflects the grandeur of Florence’s wealthy merchant families and their contributions to the city’s architectural heritage.
The Campo di Marte is notable as a modern addition to the city, reflecting Florence’s 19th-century expansion and its embrace of recreational and military spaces. The map also features the Fort Belvedere, a fortification on the southern edge of the city, offering a glimpse into Florence’s military history and its strategic importance. Charitable institutions such as La Misericordia further highlight Florence’s longstanding commitment to social welfare and care for the needy.