Church and Museum of Orsanmichele, Florence

Beautiful church with very interesting statues. The originals can be seen in the museum on the upper floors and also you have a nice view from there. Definitely worth a visit, even if it's only for a few minutes.

Unfortunately could only see the statues outside and a quick glimpse of the inside due to repairs.

While most tourist are exploring the many goldsmith workshops and many master craft-men working at their leather goods. I am always amused with the plentiful sculptures scattered all around the city. Walking down Via dei Calzaiuoli on your way to Piazza della Signoria, you can’t miss these ornate statues nestled into the side of this building. Orsanmichele is now a church and Museum but was originally built as a grain market, and between 1380 and 1404 used for Florence's powerful craft and trade guilds. Although this is a replica you can still feast your eyes on the magnificent work of the Flemish sculptor Giambologna (1529-1608), this is his interpretation of “Luke”. ⠀

Interesant. Frumos. Merita văzut. Orsanmichele is a rather long name for a church, comprised of three different words all compressed into one. First documented in the year 895, it stood as an oratory in the monastery St. Michael (San Michele). The construction was surrounded by a vegetable garden (orto) belonging to the Benedictine monastery. Thus the name, a bit modified over the years, became known as: Or - San - Michele. The austre external portion of the church shows that it is set on three floors, much like an office building, and it is a mix of simple walls in gray stone, intricate Gothic arches and windows, outdoor nichè with various sculptures and, even if you look for it, you won't find a regal formal “front” door. The entrance to the church is around the corner in the back. The original structure was destroyed in 1239 and around 1290 Arnolfo di Cambia was hired to build a loggia for the market. This building, made of wood, was again severely damaged in a fire and rebuilt again in 1336 as a market and grain storage area, on commission of the Silk guild (union of silk workers). As you wander around the square floorpan, look up to the frescoed arches and you will notice large metal rings embedded in the ceiling, these were used to load and unload the heavy blocks of grain.

Nice place to visit with a panoramic view of Florence downtown!