Torre dei Mannelli, Medieval tower at Ponte Vecchio corner, Florence, Italy
The Torre dei Mannelli occupies the southeast corner of Ponte Vecchio, built from stone with the rectangular form typical of medieval Florentine defense structures. It remains one of the most photographed elements of the bridge due to its corner position and distinctive silhouette.
The tower was built in medieval times as part of a defense system with three other corner structures protecting Ponte Vecchio during the 13th century. It is the sole survivor of these four towers that once guarded the bridge.
The Mannelli family's decision to keep their tower unchanged shaped how the corridor above was later designed, forcing architects to find creative solutions. You can still see how the passageway bends around it rather than cutting through straight.
The tower is best viewed from the bridge itself as you cross Ponte Vecchio, where you can see its form clearly against the river backdrop. A gelato shop occupies the ground floor, making it a natural stopping point while walking around the bridge area.
Following damage during World War II, architect Nello Baroni oversaw a complete restoration of the tower between 1944 and 1946. This careful work brought it back to its original state and prevented its loss to history.
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