Celebrating 150 Years: Florence as the Capital of Italy

Historical Context and Significance

The Shift from Turin to Florence

The decision to move the Italian capital from Turin to Florence was ratified during the Paris Convention on September 15, 1864, a crucial agreement between Italy and France. France, having supported Italy during the Italian War of Independence, played a significant role in this transition. Florence was deemed more accessible from various parts of the newly unified Kingdom of Italy, which had been established just three years prior in 1861.

Architectural and Urban Developments

One of the most notable figures during this period was Giuseppe Poggi, an architect who reimagined Florence’s urban landscape. His contributions were crucial in preparing the city to serve as the nation’s capital.

Main Events of the 150th Anniversary

The commemoration included 25 diverse events ranging from exhibitions to conferences, each designed to shed light on different facets of Florence's capital era. Here are some highlights:

• A Capital and its Architect: Held from February 3 to June 6, 2015, at the State Archives, this exhibition featured documents, models, paintings, and objects related to Giuseppe Poggi’s work.
• Musical Matinees: These events recreated the musical atmosphere of Florence’s salons and theaters during the capital years.
• Female Presence in Florence: On April 18, a collaboration with the Association Archive for the Memory and Writing of Women explored the role of women during this period.
• Theatre and Music Criticism: A study day on May 19, in collaboration with the University of Florence, focused on the era’s cultural critiques.
• Florence as Seen by Fabio Borbottoni: From February 17 to April 5, an exhibition showcased Borbottoni’s famous views alongside other artists of the late nineteenth century.
• The Courtyard of the Florentines: On September 20, the National Archaeological Museum hosted an event highlighting archaeology during the capital years.
• Salotti Fiorentini: On October 22, the Museum of Casa Martelli hosted discussions on the cultural, social, and political debates of the time.
• The Academy of Fine Arts: On November 26, a conference examined the artistic culture of Florence between 1865 and 1870.

Impact and Legacy

The role of Florence as Italy’s capital, though brief, was a period of intense cultural and political activity that helped shape the modern identity of the city. The events of 2015 not only commemorated this important historical epoch but also offered insights into the significant transformations during those years. These celebrations helped underscore Florence's enduring influence on Italian cultural and political life.

For further reading on Florence’s role as the capital and its impact on Italian history, visit the official Florence archives and the Italian Ministry of Cultural Heritage.

This anniversary not only served as a reminder of Florence's brief but impactful period as the capital of Italy but also as a celebration of its lasting legacy in the realms of art, culture, and politics.