At the Orsanmichele, Florence

Virtually explore the Orsanmichele with Smarthistory as your guide

videos + essays

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Donatello, <em>St. Mark</em>
Donatello, St. Mark

When the citizens of Florence looked up at St. Mark, they saw a mirror of their own dignity—and of ancient nobility.

Nanni di Banco, <em>Four Crowned Saints</em>
Nanni di Banco, Four Crowned Saints

Capturing figures in thought, stonemasons understood what it meant to be human—just like the ancient Romans.

Orsanmichele and Donatello’s <em>Saint Mark</em>, Florence
Orsanmichele and Donatello’s Saint Mark, Florence

From granary to—church? Once open to the city, this building and its niches blend the spiritual with the everyday.