26
Nov 2025
Virginia
The Teatrino Della Baldracca: One of Florence’s Oldest Theaters
Beginning in 1567, Teatino Della Baldracca holds the title of being one of the oldest theaters in Florence. Located in a palace known as the seat of the New Customs House, the theater was also attached to the Uffizi gallery. The space remained in operation from 1567 to around 1650, housing countless shows and gatherings during that time. In the 16th and 17th centuries, theater shows were thought to be sinful, and the Catholic church condemned the event. This caused the exact location to remain a secret, and attendees would often hide their identities. One of these attendees was the Grand Duke, and he would watch from behind an iron gate in a private, raised room in order to remain anonymous. Though a secret spot, the Baldracca Theater became a place where characters came to life in an extravagant fashion. Perhaps the most popular characters were those of carnivale, a celebration held throughout Italy before Lent, a Christian period of atonement before Easter. These characters include Harlequin, Pantalone, Colombina, and Il Dottore.
Teatrino Della Baldracca
Harlequin
Colombina
carnival celebrations in the streets