Palazzo Alfani
Florence (Firenze), Italy

The historic Residenza Palazzo Alfani is located the heart of Florence, close to the Duomo Cathedral and directly opposite the Accademia Gallery which houses the original of Michelangelos David .

Its location allows the visitor to combine relaxation with a cultural experience: a dip into Renaissance Florence.

It is the ideal choice for those who wish to enjoy the true spirit of Florence.


The history of Palazzo Alfani,- XVI century palace protected by the Italian National Commission for Cultural Heritage- was acquired by the ancestors of the current owners at the beginning of the 1800s.

The buildings façade is in classical Renaissance style. The interior, although subject to various renovations over time, continues to maintain its original period style.

All original fittings, floors and banisters have been restored.

All restoration work has been carried out with full respect for the past.

Suites

The Architecture, furnishings and general décor of the Palazzo Alfani combine a flavour of the past with the most modern technology.

Modern comfort is married to Renaissance tradition. Palazzo Alfani also has the additional advantage in that some of the Suites are interconnected, thus facilitating groups of friends or families who wish to spend their holiday together.

Most of the Suites overlook a large garden (250mq), which is unique in the centre of Florence. The suites under the supervision of the Interior Decorator Graziella Marcelli are furnished with period furniture. The overall affect is to create a Florentine atmosphere in a modern context.

Each bedroom has a kingsized bed (twin or double). The well-known upholsterers Ciolini provide the furnishings. All rooms contain prints by Talani, Possente, Alinari, as well as etchings by the noted engravers Ippogrifo. The lamps are handmade in ceramics.

All suites are fully furnished with necessary appliances to make your stay as comfortable as possible. Fine porcelain and glasses, including those for fine wines, are provided.

The bathrooms, bright and spacious, have been completely restructured with the finest materials. Each contains a shower unit with Jacuzzi hydromassage.

All suites have individual air-conditioning and heating units.
ADSL internet connection is provided free.

The Alfani family takes personal charge of the Residence, so that guests whether on holiday or on a working visit may enjoy the best treatment.

Suites are provided with:
Air conditioning and heating
Welcome basket
Microwave oven
Espresso Coffee machine
Fully equipped kitchen
Fridge-Freezer
ADSL internet connection
TV satellite
Hair dryer
Linen
Water, electricity and gas charges


Services offered:
Baggage service
Change of linen every three days
City maps, car rental, museum and restaurant
Information available
Reception service
Luggage storage
Services on request:


Near-by garage facilities
Transfer to and from airport and train station
Car and scooter rental
Bicycle rental
Daily make-up of bedroom
Dry cleaning service
Daily cleaning service, linen change on alternate days
Housekeeping
Baby sitting service
Personalized tourist and culinary/ wine tasting outings
Guided tours of the city and region
Cookery courses
Wine tasting
Printing service
Hairdresser
Flowers
We remain at your disposal for any further requests.

Palazzo Alfani History

Among the previous residents of the Palazzo was Professor Augusto Alfani, ( 1844-1923), a distinguished Philologist and educator. He was the founder of the "Review of Public Education" (1872), and author of stories and dialogues for children.

He was a member of the Accademia della Crusca from 1885 and became its Secretary in 1889.

In 1914, he was partly responsible for the compilation of a Standard Italian Language Dictionary.

His son, Father Guido Alfani, a Scolopian, was Director of the famous Seismological Observatory Ximeniano in Florence from 1905 to 1940.

He was responsible for much pioneering work in Seismology, Meteorology and Astronomy. In the early 1900s he set up a Geodynamics laboratory in the basement of the Convent of San Giovannino, which became one of the most famous in Italy and in Europe. He also set up a Radio and Telegraph Station for receiving signals and meteological bulletins from Paris. Among his admires was Guglielmo Marconi, who visited him in 1913.

Useful Link: Osservatorio Ximeniano