The Piazza della Repubblica
During Roman times, the Piazza della Repubblica (Republic Square) was the ancient center of Florence, the site of the forum. As of the Middle Ages and for several centuries thereafter, it remained the “old” city market.
The Piazza della Signoria
The Piazza della Signoria has always been the focal point of the history of the Florentine Republic. It serves a public function, particularly by housing the Loggia dei Lanzi (lodge for public gatherings).
The Loggia dei Lanzi
The Loggia dei Lanzi is located in the Piazza della Signoria, near the Palazzo Vecchio.
This building is formally called the Loggia della Signoria, but is often referred to as the Loggia dei Lanzi because of the mercenary soldiers called “lanzichenecchi” that were stationed there in 1527 on their way to Rome.