The Fortezza da Basso, whose real name is "Fortezza di San Giovanni da Basso", is one of the two Florentine castles. The Fortezza is just a few steps from Santa Maria Novella railway station and is encircled by the viali di circonvallazione.

It was the Medici family who commissioned the construction of the Fortezza and of many other palaces and villas in Florence during the 1530s, at the time of the so-called Italian Wars (a series of conflict between the leading European powers for control of the Italian states). The Medicis had been able to go back to Florence thanks to Charles V: Pope Clement VII (Giuliano de` Medici`s son) had promised to crown him emperor in exchange for the overthrow of the Florentine Republic and the restoration of the seigniory.

A real jewel of military architecture, the Fortezza is now an important fair facility that hosts many events, including the "Borsa del Turismo Congressuale", the "Mostra Internazionale dell`Artigianato", the various Pitti events and the "Salone del Mobile".

Another Florentine castle is the Fortezza di Santa Maria in San Giorgio del Belvedere, also known as Forte Belvedere. Like the Fortezza da Basso, this fortification, which dates back to the late 16th century and stands atop the hill of Boboli, in the Oltrarno district, right behind Palazzo Pitti, was built by order of the Medicis with the purpose of protecting both the reigning family and the plain that stretches south of Florence historic centre from possible attacks.

One of the many elements that the two buildings have in common is the fact that neither of them has ever been besieged.

And after having visited Florence you could go in search of other castles in Scandicci, Calenzano, Fiesole...