Located at number 2 on the prestigious Lungarno Corsini, Palazzo Alfieri boasts a fascinating history that winds its way through the centuries, intertwining with the lives of illustrious figures from the history of Florence.
Originally built in the 13th century by the Ruggerini family, this historic Florentine palace passed through the hands of several important families of the city, including the Fastelli, the Petribuoni, and the Gianfigliazzi. In the 17th century, the renowned architect Gherardo Silvani carried out a major renovation, giving the building the elegant appearance we still admire today.
The middle of the 18th century marked a particularly interesting period in the history of Palazzo Alfieri. The princess Louise of Stolberg, Countess of Albany, found refuge there after her separation from Charles Edward Stuart, pretender to the English throne. Here, in the heart of Florence, Louise had a passionate and controversial love affair with the famous poet and playwright Vittorio Alfieri. Their relationship, which defied the social conventions of the time, left an indelible mark on the history of the palace.
After Vittorio Alfieri’s death in 1803, right here in this historic residence, Louise of Stolberg commissioned Antonio Canova to create a funeral monument in his honour, which is now housed in the Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence. Upon her death, Louise left the property to the painter François-Xavier Fabre, her last companion. Both Vittorio Alfieri and Louise, Countess of Albany, were buried in the famous Florentine basilica.
During the 19th century, the Masetti family, then owners of Palazzo Alfieri, made further changes to the structure, including adding a new floor and rearranging the windows, contributing to the building’s architectural evolution.
Today, after spanning centuries of history as the home of noble families and the scene of romance and intrigue, Palazzo Alfieri has reopened its doors as an exclusive period residence in Florence. We offer our guests a unique stay, a true plunge into Florentine history, in an ambience of charm and refinement.