Spotting coats of arms on Via del Podestà in Galluzzo, Florence ⚜

I do a lot of convenience shopping, cheap pizza-stuffing and window shopping in Galluzzo, at the shops, restaurants and market there. My dog walks also take me this way too, as it's only a twenty minute stroll from our house.

Galluzzo is a tranquil town located south of Florence and was once an independent municipality until it became part of the city in 1929. The area is rich in history, with a variety of architectural and cultural landmarks that offer a fascinating glimpse into the past. Today I was enjoying a stroll with Daisy dog and noticed on the road Via del Podestà a ton of coats of arms featured on buildings.

Palazzo del Podestà. In the 1400s it was the seat of the Podestà del Galluzzo. Coats of arms all of its fascia are the successive families who ran local government.

At the heart of Galluzzo is the large Niccolò Acciaiuoli Square, named after the influential 14th-century figure who played a key role in shaping the town. One of the most notable buildings in the square is the Palazzo del Podestà, which dates back to the 1400s. This historic palace was the seat of the Podestà, the local magistrate, and its façade is decorated with the coats of arms of the various noble families who governed Galluzzo over the centuries.

All photographs and video featured in this blog were taken today only on Via Del Podestà

Daisy dog walking past the Palazzo del Podestà

The surrounding streets, such as Via Camillo Barni and Via Martellini, are lined with ancient buildings that were once part of the village of Galluzzo Vecchio, adding a sense of timelessness to the town. These narrow, winding streets lead to the impressive Villa "I Bottai", also known as Villa Malavolta. Built in the 16th century, this villa is a prime example of the grandeur of the period and stands as an architectural gem in the area.

A Via de Podestà doorway featuring coat of arms above it

No. 70, perhaps 'Le Pergole' The Pergolas - I would love to see its garden!

Further along, Via del Podestà connects Galluzzo to the historic route that once linked Florence with Volterra, offering an important glimpse into the region’s transportation and trade history. As you continue, you’ll pass by the peaceful Monastery of Santa Maria della Disciplina del Portico, a quiet and reflective spot that adds to the area's spiritual atmosphere.

Looks like a chicken carcass, perhaps once a butchers shop? "Macelleria"

Close-up of Chicken-esque relief above a residential house which may have been a Macelleria/butchers?

Finally, the view of the Certosa del Galluzzo is one of the most striking features of the town. This large and impressive complex, founded by Niccolò Acciaiuoli in the 14th century, is a monumental testament to his influence and vision. The Certosa, located on the outskirts of Florence, remains a significant religious and cultural landmark, with its peaceful surroundings offering a sense of serenity and historical importance. I have yet to sneak in and take photographs of this, but its worth you doing a quick Google (or better yet, duckduckgo.com) of Certosa del Galluzzo, so you can see what I mean by "striking".

A little worn and tired, but elegant and with coat of arms

Close-up of heraldry featuring two swords (divinity?). If you recognise it, please tell me about it.

Galluzzo may be small, but its rich history, beautiful villas, and serene landscapes make it an interesting area to explore and appreciate the deeper layers of Florentine heritage. I feel so lucky as a new arrival to this area to have such an aesthetic road to explore and every time I walk down with Daisy dog I spot something new, as does Daisy - except she's lower down and focused on the pavement and walls, whilst my head is in the clouds and the many coats of arms found on this historical road.

Number 18 Via del Podestà and it's pretty coat of arms, which makes me think "Freemasonry", no surprise given this is where a lot of the renaissance local councillors lived and worked

That's a Freemason compass sign plus a Cinghiale or Orsa - Wild boar or Bear, and a Star - the mind boggles?!

The coats of arms that adorn the buildings along this historic street called Via del Podestà serve as symbols of power, prestige, and legacy, representing the various influential families that shaped the area throughout the centuries. Many of these crests bear intricate designs, often combining elements like shields, animals, and crowns, each with its own unique meaning tied to the family's origins, achievements, or alliances.

Very weatherworn coat of arms

Looks to be a newer addition to Via del Podestà, to keep the historic traditions in place

Close up of above newer coat of arms. Ravens or crows, generally the symbol of divine providence. A lot of self importance going on here.

Walking down Via del Podestà, visitors are treated to a visual journey through time, where the coats of arms serve as silent storytellers of Galluzzo’s past. Some of these heraldic symbols trace back to medieval times when local lords and merchants played key roles in both the economic and political life of Florence. Others reflect the influence of the nearby monasteries, whose religious leaders were often granted noble titles. As you stroll past these remarkable emblems, you can almost feel the weight of history, each symbol a testament to the generations of power, pride, and tradition that have shaped this picturesque corner of Tuscany. It gives you neck ache after a while, but it's worth it and it doesn't involve paying for museum entry, it's free history at our fingertips and it's fascinating!

Have to finish this article with another symbol recently added to Via del Podestà. The Fleur de Lys of Florence ⚜ which dates back to French Nobility – an interesting link to be further explored in another blog

And closer. Not quite as impressive as the ancient more ornate symbols when representing Florence, Italy and its French origins

The ultimate symbol of Florence, the Fleur de Lys

La Torre del Pittore means The Painter's Tower - an understated and intriguing sign on Via del Podestà