Florence's Overlooked Historical Square

Florence is renowned for its iconic piazzas like Piazza della Signoria and Piazza del Duomo, but there is a square with profound historical significance hiding in plain sight: Piazza dell'Unità Italiana. This busy yet often overlooked piazza commemorates one of the most important chapters in Italian history -- the unification of Italy.

Historical Significance

Piazza dell'Unità Italiana, as its name suggests, celebrates the unification of Italy (Risorgimento) that took place in the 19th century. This square pays homage to the movement that transformed Italy from a collection of separate states into one unified nation in 1861. Located near Florence's central train station (Santa Maria Novella), the square serves as a reminder of Florence's brief but significant role as the capital of the newly unified Italy from 1865 to 1871, before Rome ultimately became the permanent capital.

Architectural Features

The square is dominated by the granite obelisk erected in 1890 to commemorate the unification, and as a memorial to Italians who fought and died in various wars (some of the plaques on the obelisk were added as time went by - like the one for the soldiers who died in WWII). It is framed by 19th-century buildings that showcase the neoclassical style popular during the period of unification. The surrounding architecture reflects (or reflected at one point) the optimism and forward-looking vision of the newly formed Italian state. A newer building on the square has always struggled to fit in architecturally and seems to be in a perpetual state of repair (or covered in advertisements).

The square is characterized by its open paved area, allowing visitors to appreciate the harmonious proportions of the surrounding architecture and the obelisk, while providing space for the occasional public gatherings and events that take place here. Unfortunately, there is no green space here (but you will find a newsstand!).

The Surrounding Area

Piazza dell'Unità Italiana sits at a strategic location in Florence:

• Across the street is Santa Maria Novella
• Nearby, you'll find the high end fashion district around Via de' Tornabuoni
• A short walk east leads to the the Duomo
• The square connects seamlessly to Via Nazionale

Visiting Tips

When visiting Piazza dell'Unità Italiana:

• Take a moment to appreciate the architectural harmony of the surrounding buildings
• Visit in the early morning or late afternoon when the light enhances the square's beauty
• Consider it as a starting point for exploring the nearby Santa Maria Novella neighborhood
• Look for the commemorative elements that reference Italian unification

While it may not have the dramatic sculptures of Piazza della Signoria or the towering presence of the Duomo, Piazza dell'Unità Italiana offers something equally valuable -- a window into the formation of modern Italy and Florence's role in that momentous historical process.

If you're seeking to understand Florence beyond the Renaissance masterpieces, this often-overlooked square provides a perfect opportunity to appreciate Italy's journey toward becoming the unified country we know today.

The square is very near to the train station, as mentioned - and if you are looking to stay in this area, the Grand Hotel Baglioni is one of them most popular in Florence.