Spedale del Bigallo, Medieval hospital museum in Bagno a Ripoli, Italy.
The Spedale del Bigallo is a medieval building in Bagno a Ripoli that features a loggia with five arches supported by square pillars. Beneath this loggia, passages lead to spaces where historical water channels and washing areas are still visible.
The building was established in 1214 along the ancient Via Aretina as a shelter for poor travelers and pilgrims. Members of the Misericordia brotherhood provided care and protection to those who arrived needing help.
The building displays the emblem of a brotherhood throughout its spaces, showing a rooster alongside the letters S.M.B for Santa Maria del Bigallo. This symbol connects the place to the Misericordia brotherhood and its work helping those in need.
The location is easily reached via the old road and maintains its medieval layout while serving as accommodation today. The historical water systems and rooms are accessible during visits, showing how daily tasks were managed in medieval times.
The building's kitchen contains a large fireplace supported by stone columns, designed to prepare meals for many people at once. This architectural solution allowed efficient cooking for hundreds of guests simultaneously.
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