Loggia del Bigallo

The Loggia del Bigallo is a stunning late Gothic building located in Florence, Italy, at the bustling corner of Piazza San Giovanni and via Calzaioli. Built between 1352 and 1358, this architectural gem was commissioned by the Compagnia della Misericordia, a charitable organization dedicated to helping the sick and orphans. The loggia features beautifully decorated arched bays adorned with bas-reliefs of biblical figures and virtues. After a fire in 1442, the second story was rebuilt, and in 1697, the arches were walled up to create more space for an oratory, only to be uncovered in 1889. Visitors can explore the interior museum showcasing artifacts from the two fraternities associated with the building, making it a fascinating stop for tourists and researchers interested in Florence's rich history of charity and architecture.