Palazzo Frescobaldi, Florence

History

Until the late 16th century, the site was occupied by a number of houses belonging to the Frescobaldi, notable for known a Casa del Cortile, or House of the Courtyard, because of its large inner garden. The prominent family also built a large palace in Piazza San Jacopo. Many of their earlier structures were demolished during internecine conflicts. Under the patronage of Matteo Frescobaldi, between 1621 and 1644, the houses were unified into a single large residence. Behind the facade is still a large enclosed garden, enlivened with azaleas, with a baroque wall fountain. The garden also has two modern bronze sculptures by Arnaldo Pomodoro.