Venerabile Arciconfraternita della Misericordia di Firenze, Medieval charitable brotherhood in Florence, Italy
The Venerabile Arciconfraternita della Misericordia is a charitable organization in Florence that has served the community for centuries. It operates ambulance services, runs nursing homes, rents medical equipment, and manages food distribution programs for those in need.
The organization was founded in 1244 by the Dominican friar Peter Martyr to transport sick people to hospitals during Florence's devastating plague outbreaks. What began as a response to one specific crisis evolved into a broader charitable mission that continues today.
The name itself reflects the organization's purpose: Misericordia means mercy in Italian. The museum displays medieval black tunics worn by members, wooden altars dating from the 1500s, and silver pieces made by local craftsmen.
The organization is located near Piazza del Duomo in central Florence and is easy to reach on foot. Keep in mind that this is an active charitable operation, so you may experience wait times and certain areas may be closed due to ongoing work.
This organization holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously operating private voluntary institution in the world, maintaining its mission for over eight centuries without interruption. Such longevity makes it a rare example of continuity in a constantly changing city.
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