Florence has no shortage of museums, that’s for sure, but aside from those that are world-famous (names like Uffizzi and Pitti come to mind), there are a few that are less well-known but really worthy of attention. We had the pleasure of visiting one such place……The Stibbert Museum……and being escorted through the place by Dominique Fuchs, a curator and the kind of guide you always hope for when you want to learn something new.
A Peek into History
This museum, a true peek into the ancient world of armour, is the result of more than forty years of collecting by Frederick Stibbert (1838-1906), who left it to the municipality of Florence upon his death. He was born to an English father and Italian mother and spent most of his adult life traveling and collecting armour, a passion of his.
Armour on Parade
European armour, largely from the 16th century, features many examples of horse armour, arms and armours for both warfare and tournaments. Knees were allowed some flexibility but still protected by chain maille flaps on the leg and boot covers.
Man and Beast Ready for Battle
Boot Armour
Middle East armours, colorful and far more elaborate than the european examples, were brought from Turkey, Persia and Mogul India. The brilliantly coloured clothing was made armour-effective by small metal plates sewn into the inside lining, but the richness of the period is on display in those fancy stirrups.
Indian Armour
Fancy Stirrups
Far Eastern arms and armours cover an entire floor of the museum and feature an extensive collection of masks and headgear meant to terrify opponents in battle. I’m sure it worked…..and it is said that warriors would also eat garlic and cabbage before going into battle to increase their frightful loathsomeness and perhaps therefore gain an advantage in the final moment of contact.
Japanese Armour
Dragon Mask
The museum also fascinates in its private quarters, period costume displays and a remarkable surrounding park, complete with folly!
Noble Woman
Egyptian Folly
For sure a wonderful thing for children to see in Florence…..but visitors of every age will be surprised and very well entertained…….go and see for yourself.