PALAZZO GUADAGNI, A BOUTIQUE HOTEL IN THE CENTRE OF FLORENCE

Palazzo Guadagni, originally a 16th-century historical residence, has been artfully transformed into a refined 3-star hotel, reaffirming its longstanding commitment to the art of hospitality. Nestled in the heart of Piazza Santo Spirito, at the intersection of Via Mazzetta, this charming Palazzo encircles a central courtyard. What sets Palazzo Guadagni apart is its beautifully transformed loggia, now an enchanting rooftop garden offering captivating views of Florence's historic city centre and the picturesque hills.

Inside, the elegant 16th-century structure has undergone meticulous restoration, revealing sumptuous rooms characterised by elegant lounges, frescoed vaults and period furnishings. It's a timeless embodiment of elegance, sophistication and a welcoming, familial ambiance, establishing itself as a boutique hotel in Florence that exudes enduring charm. Hotel Palazzo Guadagni effortlessly recreates the atmosphere of a bygone Florentine private residence in its lounges and luminous rooms, all tastefully appointed with period furniture.

THE ROOMS AT HOTEL PALAZZO GUADAGNI

The rooms, offered in various sizes, are all distinguished by their unique characteristics. Each one has a cosy bathroom containing a bathtub or shower, complete with hair-drying facilities. The bedrooms are also equipped with satellite TV, air conditioning, a minibar and Wi-Fi connection. Some of the rooms are accessible via an internal staircase; several boast frescoed ceilings or ancient fireplaces and offer a splendid view from the Palazzo overlooking the Basilica and Piazza Santo Spirito, Palazzo Pitti, Florence Cathedral and Palazzo Vecchio.

THE HISTORY OF PALAZZO GUADAGNI

Situated at the juncture of Piazza Santo Spirito and Via Mazzetta, Palazzo Guadagni was the first loggia in Renaissance Florence to gracefully and discreetly overlook the façade of the Basilica of Santo Spirito, designed by Brunelleschi with a single, elegant stroke. This stately residence, now home to the eponymous hotel, boasts a rich history that dates back to the early 16th century. It was commissioned for construction by the Dei family, influential textile merchants, on the recently developed Piazza Santo Spirito: the Basilica had been completed just three decades prior to the commencement of the Palazzo's construction in 1505. Beneath the captivating loggia – where hotel guests in the 15 rooms can now savour breakfast or a evening drink, and where those not staying in the hotel can also relish the Florentine sunset from a unique vantage point – freshly woven fabrics were once hung out to dry.

In the mid-17th century, following the extinction of the Dei family line, the property came under the ownership of the Guadagni family, who resided there until 1865. In that year, Florence became the capital of Italy, marking a pivotal political shift, and the entire Palazzo was utilised as the residence of the Prime Minister of the time. It was during this era that Florence witnessed a significant period of architectural transformation, heavily influenced by the work of Giuseppe Poggi, the architect responsible for designing the ring roads, inspired by French boulevards, and Piazzale Michelangelo. Poggi played a personal role in altering Palazzo Guadagni and the adjacent building, creating a grand staircase to connect the two structures and expanding the entrance to accommodate the passage of carriages.

In the early 20th century, Palazzo Guadagni served as the “Sorelle Bandini guesthouse” or ‘pensione’, providing a haven for several wanted individuals during the Second World War during the persecution by the Nazis. This included German painter Edward Bargheer, who remained in Florence until 1947.

PALAZZO GUADAGNI TODAY

In 2007, Palazzo Guadagni underwent a change in management and has been completely renovated. The building's 19th-century charm has been meticulously preserved, including its delicate frescoes, while the furnishings have been given new lustre. Additionally, modern amenities such as air conditioning and Wi-Fi internet access throughout the hotel have been seamlessly incorporated to meet the contemporary needs of all guests.

Its unique charm has made it the location of choice of filmmakers such as Franco Zeffirelli for his film "Tea with Mussolini" and, more recently, Nina di Majo for the comedy “Matrimoni e altri disastri” (‘Weddings and Other Disasters’) starring Margherita Buy. Palazzo Guadagni still manages, however, to remain one of the most central yet discreet corners of the City of the Lily and its symbolic fleur-de-lis emblem. It is a repository of historical riches, offers an exclusive vantage point, and is a perfect launching pad for a unique exploration of our exquisite city.

FACILITIES AND SERVICES AT HOTEL PALAZZO GUADAGNI

Thanks to our reception service, guests have the possibility of booking guided tours, museum reservations, restaurants and excursions. We also provide valet parking service. Once you reach the hotel, our driver will take care of parking your car in a guarded garage for a fee. It is also possible to host private events in the loggia.

PLACES OF INTEREST IN THE VICINITY

The Hotel is located in the Santo Spirito district, one of the most picturesque areas in the historic centre of Florence, renowned for its antiquarian and artisanal shops and boutiques. It is characterised by the magnificent Renaissance Basilica designed by Brunelleschi and the traditional markets populating the Piazza di Santo Spirito. One of the most characteristic hotels in Florence in Oltrarno, the historic district ‘beyond the Arno’ located on the southern bank of the river, Hotel Palazzo Guadagni is located close to the majestic Palazzo Pitti, the ancient residence of the Grand Dukes of Tuscany and today home to prestigious art works. To relive the splendours of court life and admire the splendid progenitor of Italian-style gardens, a visit to the Boboli Gardens is a must, while its museum houses precious paintings and sculptures. A leisurely walk across the nearby Ponte Vecchio takes you to the opposite bank of Florence. Whether you admire its reflection in the river from the Ponte Santa Trinità or delve into its goldsmith workshops and scenic terraces with views over the Arno, the Ponte Vecchio is undeniably one of Florence's most iconic and beloved symbols.