Piazza Santo Spirito

Square in Florence

The Piazza Santo Spirito in Florence has a rich historical and cultural significance, dating back to the Middle Ages when it was a lively gathering place for prayers, demonstrations, games, and festivals. Today, it continues to be a vibrant square, embodying the local vibe of the Oltrarno neighborhood.

The square’s popularity is partly due to the Basilica di Santo Spirito, an architectural masterpiece designed by Filippo Brunelleschi and completed in the late 15th century. The church’s facade remains unfinished, adding to its unique and intriguing charm. Inside, the Basilica houses an impressive collection of art, including a wooden crucifix crafted by Michelangelo, along with works by artists like Filippino Lippi, Sansovino, Orcagna, and Giuliano da San Gallo.

Throughout the year, the Piazza Santo Spirito hosts various events, including a handicraft market on the second Sunday of each month and an organic market called “La fierucola” on the third Sunday of the month. Additionally, the square occasionally serves as a venue for concerts and shows, particularly during the summer months.

Surrounding the square are 15th-century houses, such as Palazzo Guadagni, notable for its upper loggia that set a trend and became a model for other aristocratic palaces in Florence. The ground floor of Palazzo Guadagni once served as the city’s first public library, which opened in 1914.

At the center of Piazza Santo Spirito stands a fountain made of pietra serena, adding to the square’s charm and serving as a gathering point for both residents and tourists. With its rich history, cultural offerings, and local atmosphere, Piazza Santo Spirito remains a beloved meeting spot in Florence’s Oltrarno neighborhood.

The Piazza Santo Spirito appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Florence!

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