Signoria, Piazza della (Real)

Signoria, Piazza della (Real),The great square of Florence, scene of the San Giovanni festival, of the Bonfire of Vanities, of the proposed Trial by Fire, and finally of Savonarola's execution. "The Piazza della Signoriathat famous piazza, where stood then, and stand now, the massive turreted Palace of the People, called the Palazzo Vecchio, and the spacious Loggia, built by Orcagna--the scene of all grand State ceremonial. The picturesque Piazza della Signoria, the centre of Florentine life and ceremony, is of ancient construction and has preserved its present aspect since the fourteenth century. In the time of Romola it was called Piazza della Signoria. Later names were Piazza del Granduca and Piazza Nazionale, but it has now resumed its earlier name. A bronze tablet now marks the spot where the gallows upon which Savonarola was executed was erected.

<em>Romola</em>

Text