San Giovanni della Calza, Renaissance church near Porta Romana, Florence, Italy
San Giovanni della Calza is a Renaissance church in Florence's Oltrarno district, located at Piazza della Calza 6 near Porta Romana. The building features light blue exterior walls, simple proportions typical of Renaissance design, and a small bell tower that completes its modest yet harmonious composition.
Founded in 1362 as a hospital for pilgrims traveling to Rome, the complex provided shelter for travelers on their sacred journey. In 1373 it was transformed into a convent under the Order of Hospitalers, establishing its role as a religious community for centuries to come.
The name refers to the sock-shaped caps worn by Jesuate friars who lived here during the 1500s and shaped the community's identity. Visitors experience this heritage when walking through the interior decorated with religious artworks created for the monks who called this place home.
The church is easily accessible in Florence's historic center and requires no special preparation to visit. Since it remains an active place of worship, visitors should dress modestly and move quietly to respect the spiritual atmosphere inside.
The interior holds a Last Supper fresco painted by Franciabigio in the 16th century alongside an altarpiece by Empoli depicting Saint John the Evangelist. These works were commissioned specifically for the monks who lived here, revealing the artistic importance placed on the community's spiritual life.
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