Santa Maria dei Battilani, Former Catholic church in Florence, Italy
Santa Maria dei Battilani is a former church in Florence with a long, simple hall defined by wooden roof trusses and eight large windows. The generous fenestration provides bright illumination throughout the interior space, creating an open and airy impression.
The building served the Ciompi organization, which reformed as the Wool Beaters Brotherhood in 1380 following the 1378 uprising that reshaped Florence's political landscape. This reorganization marked a new chapter in the site's use and purpose.
The portal on Via delle Ruote displays a split pediment with symbols representing the wool beating craft. These details tell the story of the guild that once used this space and shaped its identity.
The building is undergoing transformation into an auditorium complex for university departments in Florence's historic center, so conditions may change during this process. It is best to check access conditions in advance as restoration work may still be ongoing.
Until the 1930s, the building operated a charity service distributing daily bread rations to people in need. This daily practice made it an important social gathering place beyond its religious function.
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