Murate, Architectural ensemble in Santa Croce, Florence, Italy
Murate is an architectural ensemble in the Santa Croce neighborhood of Florence, comprising several connected structures with interior courtyards. The facades display typical stone walls and tall arched windows, while the interior preserves the original cell architecture with narrow corridors.
The building originated in the 14th century as a monastery and was converted into a men's prison in 1880. During World War II it held political prisoners before the facility closed in 1985.
The complex served as a prison until 1985 and now houses artist studios and exhibition spaces accessible to visitors on weekday afternoons. Many of the former cells have been converted into workspaces, with the original room layout still visible.
Access is available on weekday afternoons, with most exhibitions located in the courtyard and lower floors. Visitors can explore the complex without a guided tour, but should ask in advance for studio visits.
Several of the former prison cells have been turned into sound installations that work with audio recordings from the time as a detention facility. These acoustic works allow visitors to imagine the daily life behind the walls.
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