Torre dei Belfredelli is an 11th-century medieval tower on Borgo San Jacopo in Florence’s Oltrarno district, near Ponte Vecchio. Ivy climbs over its lower walls, while exposed stonework, unevenly placed windows and traces of former supports give the façade its character. The upper floor was added later. A small private garden sits in front of the tower. It is now divided into apartments, so access to the interior and views from the top depends on staying in one; from there, the city spreads out in a 360-degree panorama.
A medieval tower in Borgo San Jacopo
Torre dei Belfredelli stands at Via dei Ramaglianti 2, in Borgo San Jacopo, part of Florence’s Oltrarno district. The tower dates to the 11th century and was once a residence of the Belfradelli, a powerful Guelph family that owned several houses in the area and opposed the Donati.
The tower rises through six floors. It is among the best-preserved medieval towers in Borgo San Jacopo and one of the taller examples still standing in Florence. Its lower section is partly covered in ivy, set against exposed stone cladding.
Details on the façade
The windows sit at different heights rather than forming regular rows. Look also for the holes and projecting supports in the stonework, traces of features associated with the tower’s earlier structure. The broad-windowed upper floor is a later addition, part of the changes made to the building over time.
A small private garden lies in front of the tower. It is an unusual detail in a central part of Florence, but it is private, so view it from the street rather than entering.
Inside the tower
The building has been converted into apartments. A stay in one is the way to experience the interior; some apartments have balcony patios. The tower’s upper levels provide panoramic views across Florence, according to accounts from people who have visited inside. Access is tied to accommodation, so plan a stay rather than expecting a public tower visit.
Häufige Fragen
Can you go inside Torre dei Belfredelli?
The tower is divided into apartments. The available information points to staying in one as the way to see the interior; it does not describe public access.
Where is Torre dei Belfredelli?
It is at Via dei Ramaglianti 2 in Borgo San Jacopo, in Florence’s Oltrarno district, near Ponte Vecchio.
What should I look for on the tower?
Notice the ivy on the lower walls, exposed stonework, windows at different heights and traces of former supports. A small private garden is in front.
How old is Torre dei Belfredelli?
The tower dates to the 11th century. Its upper floor was added later.
