The Renaissance stirred up many humanitarian sentiments in Florence, especially among the wealthy. The Wool Guild at the time was one of the richest, and it paid for running of this children’s hospital. The building at the site used to be an orphanage, but it later became one of the most architecturally significant complexes in the city. If you can, read up on the history of the hospital from its founding to its closure in 1875. It’s a fascinating story. Highlights of the attraction are:

• The Italian Renaissance architecture of clear and orderly proportion and angles: a mix of Classical Roman, Italian Romanesque and late Gothic architecture.
• The ceramic Tondi: circular works of art – on the top of each column in the façade
• Equestrian statue of Ferdinand I of Tuscany by Giambologna
• The fountain
• The Adoration of the Magi by Domenico Ghirlandaio made specially for the hospital

There is a small museum on site, in the loggia above the cloister, and in the former day room. Though much of its collection has been dispersed, there are still a great many panel paintings, frescoes, furniture, decorations and precious illuminated manuscripts.

• Ticket counter closes 30 minutes before closing time.

• Buses 6, 14, 19, 23, 31 stop Ss. Annunziata - Istituto Degli Innocent
• Bus 10 stop San Marco Rettorato
• Bus 7, 19, 20 stop La Pira

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