Just northeast of the Central Train Station, Fortezza da Basso was commissioned by Duke Alessandro de’ Medici as more of a muscle flexing in front of Florentines, than for repelling invaders. It was designed by Antonio da Sangallo il Giovane and built in a swift three years (1534 to 1537).

Though it sits prominently and alluringly on city maps, it’s not open to the general public for drop-in visits. It functions as the main venue of the Florence Congress & Exhibition Citadel, hosting fashion shows, exhibitions and cultural events.

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  Photo by Bernd