Palazzo Martelli

The Palazzo Martelli, located in via Ferdinando Zannetti in Florence, is an exceptional example of a Florentine aristocratic residence that offers a fascinating journey through history and art from the Renaissance to the 19th century. Built in the 16th century, the palace was expanded and embellished over the centuries by the Martelli family, a Florentine family of merchants and bankers who had close ties with the Medici. Their influence and wealth are reflected in the magnificence of the interiors and the works of art that adorn the palace rooms. The Palazzo Martelli is not only a historic building, but also a museum that houses a precious art collection. Despite many pieces being sold over the centuries due to the family’s economic difficulties, the remaining collection is impressive. Among the preserved works are paintings by masters such as Piero di Cosimo, Francesco Francia, Salvator Rosa, and Domenico Beccafumi, as well as bronze and terracotta sculptures. The arrangement of the works reflects the typical approach of the period, with a dense layout that creates an almost intimate atmosphere, as if one were guests in a private home rather than a museum. A fascinating detail of the Palazzo Martelli is the cycle of frescoes discovered during recent restorations. In 2019, during wall cleaning works, frescoes hidden under layers of white plaster emerged. These frescoes, dating back to 1809, celebrate the marriage of Niccolò Martelli with Caterina de’ Ricci and include geometric motifs, landscape scenes, and a draped pavilion. These discoveries have added another layer of historical and artistic richness to the building. The palace was inhabited by the Martelli family until 1986, when the last descendant, Francesca Martelli, died without heirs. Francesca, a very religious and solitary woman, left the entire property to the Church. In 1998, the palace was purchased by the Italian State, which oversaw its restoration and opening to the public as a museum in 2009. A visit to the museum offers a unique experience, allowing visitors to walk through rooms decorated with frescoes, tapestries, and antique furniture, recreating the atmosphere of a noble residence of the past. Among the most significant rooms is the large ballroom, decorated with mythological and allegorical frescoes celebrating the virtues and achievements of the Martelli family. The ballroom, with its mirrors and chandeliers, is a perfect example of the splendor of the 18th century. The “Golden Room,” so named for its golden decorations, and the “Garden Room,” with its painted walls evoking a lush garden, are two other rooms that testify to the taste and sophistication of the Martelli family. One of the most fascinating aspects of the Palazzo Martelli is its ability to tell not only the story of a family, but also that of Florence through the centuries. The house-museum offers a glimpse into the daily life, habits, and passions of an aristocracy that played a crucial role in the city’s cultural and political history. The collection also includes family portraits, allowing visitors to learn about the faces and personal stories of the Martelli family. The palace garden, although modest in size, is an oasis of tranquility in the heart of the city. With its well-kept flower beds and statues, it is an ideal place for a reflective break during the visit. The Palazzo Martelli is now managed by the Polo Museale Fiorentino and can only be visited through guided tours, which offer a detailed and in-depth overview of the history and art preserved. This approach not only ensures the preservation of the building, but also allows for a full appreciation of its architectural and artistic peculiarities.