A Pleasant Surprise!!

This trompe-l'oeil in the courtyard entrance to Palazzo Martelli invites you to discover yet another secret treasure in the center of Florence. An out-of-the-way palace not usually on tour guide visits but my Saturday morning surprise, a guided tour, by a friend.

Museum of  Casa Martelli, a home-museum unique of its kind, created by a noble family over the centuries, and not the result of reconstruction and arbitrary integration. The complex and exhibition includes sculpture and paintings of the 17th and 18th centuries.

The majestic staircase that leads to the museum

We arrive at the museum after climbing this monumental staircase. At the top, at one time, the statue  "Il Giovanino" by Donatello reigned. (Now in the Bargello)

"Il Bagno"   ( The Bath )

 Completely decorated with trompe-l'oeil affrescos, this room is called the Bath. In the recessed area  to the right  a marble bathtub is set among the ivy and flowers depicted in the fresco. The dimmly lit room is  suggestive enough on its own but Saturday  morning a string quartet concert was scheduled at 11 and they were rehearsing here while we looked on. Four young and accomplished musicians.

 

The ballroom where concerts are held.

But, the sights that really were amazing to see were the rooftop views of Florence and her monuments as seen from a terrace  that is being restored at the top of the museum.  We were priviledged to see the city from there. I confess that I didn't have my camera with me so these pics  are off the web.  Sorry!  It won't happen again........

Florence rooftop view

rooftop view