Reconstructing a Lost Space: The Ghetto Mapping Project at the MAP

For over two centuries, the Florence ghetto served as the focal point of Jewish life in the city. Established in 1570 by Cosimo I, possibly in adherence to the directives of Pope Pius V during the Counter-Reformation, who had conferred upon him the grand ducal title, the ghetto was situated in the heart of the 'Mercato Vecchio' area. In 1888, a few decades after the Jews had achieved social emancipation and full political rights, the ghetto was dismantled. This essay presents initial findings from the Ghetto Mapping Project, an ongoing research initiative. Utilizing a comprehensive examination of the Medici archives, the project aims to reconstruct the architectural, economic, demographic, and historical aspects of the former Florentine ghetto.