Historical note
Rothe, Andrea & Marusussich, Giovanni ·Florentine Structural Stabilization Techniques, Part Four, Getty Publications, 1998
Piazza Santa Croce, just after the flood of 1966 · image credit: Torrini Fotogiornalismo Firenze, used with permission
Basilica of Santa Croce
A basilica, a monument, a flood
The Opera di Santa Croce plays a vital role in preserving and maintaining the many rich and complex layers of history represented in the vast artistic, cultural, civil and religious heritage of the basilica — along with its extraordinary chapels, serene inner courtyards, and affiliated buildings.
Today the Enrico Pazzi monument to Dante Alighieri, erected in 1865, stands to the left of the basilica. The image above was captured just after the great flood of 1966, which killed at least 101 people and damaged or destroyed millions of priceless artworks and rare books — leading some scholars of art restoration to conclude that the flood caused more damage to cultural heritage than both World Wars combined. Florence has yet to overcome the full scope of the damage.
Detail · the Enrico Pazzi monument to Dante Alighieri, 1865
Preservation
Supporting the Opera di Santa Croce
Please consider donating to the Opera di Santa Croce, or to learn more about their work and the historical preservation of this landmark site, please visit their website directly.
This site processes no funds. Please leave a reference with your donation of “Dinner with Dante” where possible.