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The Piazza of Santa Maria Novella
In 1287, with a decreto of the Florentine Republic, Piazza of Santa Maria Novella was to be created and given to the Dominicans for decoro, or decorum and ornament, to the new church being built. Right away, the piazza became theater to festivals, tournaments and other contests. The two obelisks of marble from Serravezza, each one sitting atop four bronze turtles by Giambologna and topped with a Florentine lily, were the "goals" for the "Palio dei Cocchi".
On the side opposite the church, the Loggia of the San Paolo hospital was built at the beginning of the 13th century. In the second half of the 15th century, the hospital was enlarged and given the loggia with stone columns.
The arches between each column have round glazed terracotta reliefs of saints by Andrea della Robbia. The lunette shaped relief of The Embrace between St. Dominque and St. Francis over the right portal is also by Andrea della Robbia.
Today, several elegant hotels and restaurants overlook the recently cleaned and renovated square. Some interesting metal and glass benches were at that time installed in the middle of the square, quite useless on warm summer days as they get burning hot! Maybe that was the city's intent... ?
View photos of Piazza Santa Maria Novella »
Interested in a hotel in Piazza SMN?
Want to stay in Piazza Santa Maria Novella with a great view of the square or rooftop view of Florence? Here are a few suggestions of hotels you can book online that overlook the square of Santa Maria Novella.
Grand Hotel Minerva
At number 16 in Piazza Santa Maria Novella, the Grand Hotel Minerva offers a spectacular terrace from which you can admire all of Florence.
Book your room now »
Hotel Orologio
At number 24, the Hotel Orologio offers comfortable rooms, each floor dedicated to a different watchmaker brand. Marble bathrooms and excellent views over Florence.
Book at the Hotel Orologio now »
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