Torre dei Marsili is a medieval tower on Borgo San Iacopo in Florence’s Oltrarno district. Built by the Marsili family in the 12th century, it is now privately owned and closed to visitors, but its facade can be seen from the street. Look for the Della Robbia terracottas added in the 19th century, including an Annunciation above the main door, with garlands, flowers and angel figures around it. Pair a look at the tower with a walk through Borgo San Iacopo and nearby historic Florence.
A tower in Oltrarno
Torre dei Marsili stands on Borgo San Iacopo, in Florence’s Oltrarno district. The Marsili family built it in the 12th century. Like other tower houses, it has an ancient entrance framed by arches, with a lower rounded arch and a pointed arch above it.
The terracotta facade
The tower passed to the Sorbi family in the 19th century. They decorated its exterior with Della Robbia terracottas. Above the main door is an Annunciation; garlands, flowers and angel figures add detail to the facade. The tower remains privately owned, so visitors can admire this work from the street rather than go inside.
Perguntas frequentes
Can you go inside Torre dei Marsili?
No. The tower is privately owned and not open to visitors. You can see its decorated facade from the street.
Where is Torre dei Marsili?
It is on Borgo San Iacopo in Florence’s Oltrarno district.
What should you look for on the tower?
Look for the Della Robbia terracottas, especially the Annunciation above the main door, as well as the garlands, flowers and angel figures.
