Florence - The Cathedral Square and the surrounding buildings
Piazza della Repubblica
Piazza della Repubblica
Piazza della Repubblica was built immediately after the Unity of Italy, when Florence became the capital of the new kingdom. Piazza della Repubblica was part of a town-plannig scheme including the demolition of some ancient buildings in the city center, as the Mercato Vecchio and the Jewish ghetto.
At the time, the Florentine did not appreciate the decision to build Piazza della Repubblica and even today they feel embarrassed because of this imposing square.
Piazza della Repubblica was built and several neighbouring streets were renovated to the detriment of 26 ancient Florentine streets, 18 lanes, 350 houses, 450 shops and about 173 warehouses; about 6000 people were obliged to move to other parts of Florence.
The ancient Mercato Vecchio, which was situated where the Roman forum once stood, and the neighbouring Jewish ghetto were completely destroyed.
The maps of the topographical museum "Firenze Com`era" show how this part of the city appeared before Piazza della Repubblica was built.
