Complesso di San Firenze

Historic Building and Museum in Florence

Complesso Di San Firenze
CC BY-SA 3.0 / sailko

The Complex of San Firenze, situated on the southeast corner of San Firenze Square in central Florence, holds a diverse collection of buildings that have played significant roles throughout history. One notable structure within the complex is the 17th-century Oratory, now utilized for events and concerts, adding cultural vibrancy to the area. Adjacent to it stands the Church of San Filippo Neri, featuring an elegant Baroque-style façade that reflects its original function.

After undergoing extensive restoration, the complex has been transformed into a versatile cultural space and is home to several notable institutions. Among them is the Franco Zeffirelli Foundation, dedicated to honouring the illustrious career of the acclaimed director, Franco Zeffirelli. Born in Florence, Zeffirelli is renowned for his work on iconic films such as “Tea with Mussolini,” “Hamlet,” “Jane Eyre,” and “The Taming of the Shrew,” as well as his collaborations with Hollywood legends like Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton. His 1968 version of “Romeo and Juliet” earned him an Academy Award nomination. With a remarkable portfolio encompassing 18 films, 31 theatrical performances, and over 100 operatic works, Zeffirelli’s legacy is now celebrated with a dedicated museum in his hometown.

The museum exhibition takes visitors through Zeffirelli’s journey, starting from his humble beginnings in 1953. The exhibition is organized into 20 chapters within different rooms, showcasing nearly 300 sketches, posters, fliers, costumes, set-design models, original drawings, and behind-the-scenes photographs from his film sets. The ground floor of the museum offers a tearoom that extends into the palazzo courtyard, providing a pleasant space for relaxation. Additionally, a store on-site offers Zeffirelli’s books and film memorabilia, allowing enthusiasts to delve deeper into the life and work of this remarkable director.

The Complex of San Firenze, with its rich history and diverse cultural offerings, is a fascinating destination for visitors to explore and gain insights into the legacy of Franco Zeffirelli and his contributions to the world of film and theatre.

The Complesso di San Firenze appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Florence!

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Visiting Complesso di San Firenze

Address: Complesso di San Firenze, Piazza di San Firenze, Florence, Metropolitan City of Florence, Italy
Duration: 20 minutes
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