THE HISTORY OF THE SANTA MONACA HOSTEL IN FLORENCE
The Santa Monaca Hostel, located in the heart of Florence, has a rich and fascinating history dating back to the 15th century.
Origins as a convent:
- In the 1400s, the building was known as “l’Albergaccio” and belonged to the Florentine Baldassarre Bonsi.
- In 1442, Ubertino de Bardi transformed it into a convent for the Augustinian order of Santa Monica.
- The convent prospered for centuries, becoming an important religious and cultural center.
The vicissitudes of the 19th and 20th centuries:
- In 1808, during the Napoleonic suppressions, the convent was confiscated and used as a military barracks.
- In 1944, during World War II, the building was damaged by bombing.
- In 1966, the Florence flood devastated the complex, making it uninhabitable.
Rebirth as a hostel:
- In 1972, thanks to the efforts of AGESCI (Associazione Scout Cattolici Italiani), the building was renovated and inaugurated as a hostel.
- Since then, the Santa Monaca Hostel has welcomed thousands of travelers from all over the world, offering them a warm welcome and a unique atmosphere.
The hostel today:
- The Santa Monaca Hostel is now a modern and functional facility, equipped with private rooms and dormitories, a common kitchen, a TV room, a garden and a panoramic terrace.
- The hostel also offers a wide range of services, including free Wi-Fi, laundry, bicycle rental and organization of activities and excursions.
- The Santa Monaca Hostel is an ideal choice for those who want to stay in Florence in an economical and comfortable way, immersing themselves in the history and culture of the city.
Curiosities:
- The hostel houses a collection of sacred art, including a painting depicting Santa Monica by the Florentine painter Giovanni Battista Vanni.
- In the garden of the hostel there is an ancient well, dating back to the 15th century.
- The Santa Monaca Hostel is a special place, where history, culture and hospitality meet to make your stay unforgettable.