Palazzo Coppini: A Historic Jewel in the Heart of Florence
In the vibrant heart of Florence, where history meets innovation, stands Palazzo Coppini, a place that embodies centuries of culture and architectural transformation. This extraordinary building, once owned by the noble Pelli family, is located on the ancient Via del Giglio, a historic artery that once connected two of the city’s major religious landmarks: the Basilica of San Lorenzo and the Dominican Convent of Santa Maria delle Vigne, later renamed Santa Maria Novella. The path of this old street followed part of the city walls built by the Florentine Republic between 1173 and 1176, bearing witness to Florence’s urban evolution.
A Palace That Tells Centuries of History
The architecture of Palazzo Coppini is a journey through time. Inside, you’ll find traces of the original medieval structure, including the remains of a city tower that was “cut down” in 1250 by order of the government of the Primo Popolo. In the 16th century, the palace underwent a major expansion with the addition of a magnificent stone spiral staircase and an elegant Mannerist fountain, set into a niche and topped with a grotesque-style mask. In the following centuries, the building was redesigned with Neo-Gothic and Neo-Renaissance, elements between the late 19th and early 20th centuries, all while preserving its historic soul.
The first archival record of the construction of Palazzo Coppini dates back to 1497, when it was documented as being “newly built from the foundations.” Its development is linked to Giovanni Pelli, who had it built in memory of his wife, Monna Ginevra, who passed away in 1534 at the age of 71. After more than five centuries and various changes in ownership, the last major restoration took place in 2013, restoring the building to its original splendor and establishing it as a landmark for cultural events and prestigious gatherings.
Its Transformation into a Cultural Center and the Headquarters of the Romualdo Del Bianco Foundation
In 1973, the history of Palazzo Coppini became intertwined with that of the Tuscan Del Bianco family. Romualdo Del Bianco (1910-1998), a construction entrepreneur and recipient of the Order of Merit for Labour, purchased the property from Paolo Orvieto, with the intention of restoring it and dividing it into small apartments. In the 1980s, thanks to the initiative of his son Paolo Del Bianco, the palace took on a new role: becoming a hub of cultural excellence. In 1998, the Romualdo Del Bianco Fondation, was established with the mission of promoting intercultural dialogue. In 2013, following a meticulous restoration, the building was officially renamed Palazzo Coppini, and became the Foundation’s headquarters. Finally, in 2017, the Museum of the Romualdo Del Bianco Foundation, was inaugurated inside, celebrating the city’s history and artistic heritage.
