Overview
Located on the Piazza della Signoria, adjacent to the Uffizi Museum and diagonally opposite the Palazzo Vecchio, the Loggia Lanzi contains several statues on public display. A loggia is a covered porch. Often attached to an important or grand building and originally used to entertain guests you did not want to admit to your palace.
Unlike most of the outdoor art in Florence, the statues in the Loggia Lanzi are originals and not reproductions. The art is on display all day. Walking among the statues is only available during open hours (and is free).
History of Loggia Lanzi
Construction on the loggia began in 1376 to hold public ceremonies. The building of the Uffizi changed the architecture to allow the two buildings to mesh. The loggia acquired its name when it housed mercenary troops for the Duke. The troops were known by their German title Landsknechts. Corrupted in Italian to Lanzi. Modified, the roof of the loggia housed Grand Duke Cosimo I during public ceremonies in the Piazzo.
Loggia Lanzi Statues
Frowned on by modern society, violence on public display (as well as nudity) was acceptable in the past. Many of the statues in the Loggia Lanzi depict violent scenes. Two statues include scenes of sexual assault; two have violence as a key part of the theme, including a graphic beheading.
Some of the art on display dates from antiquity, such as Roman or Greek times. They came from the Medici art collections. In addition to the statues, the Loggia itself displays architectural elements of artistic value.
Conclusion
Prominently placed adjacent to the Uffizi Museum and Piazza della Signoria, the Loggia Lanzi is hard to avoid. Be forewarned about the subject matter, and avoid it if you are concerned.
