Torre dei Donati, Medieval tower in Santa Croce district, Florence, Italy
Torre dei Donati is a medieval residential tower in Florence's city center, formed by combining two former separate towers into one unified structure. The merged building rises prominently above the surrounding streets and retains its original stone facade and period architectural details.
The tower originated in the 12th century as separate structures owned by the Ricci and Donati families before being merged around the mid-13th century. This combination reflected the practice of Florence's noble families who unified their fortifications into single, more powerful residences.
The tower's connection to Gemma Donati, who married poet Dante Alighieri, links this family residence to one of Florence's most famous literary figures. The structure witnessed the artistic transformations brought by Renaissance masters working nearby.
The structure now operates as a guest accommodation where visitors can experience medieval architecture from the inside. Its location near major landmarks makes it easy to explore the surrounding historic district on foot.
An upper-floor bathroom offers views across Florence's roofline toward the Duomo and Palazzo Vecchio without leaving the private space. This unusual feature gives guests an unexpected way to take in the city's landmarks while attending to daily routines.
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