The Column of Saint Zanobi (Colonna di San Zanobi) is a column located in the main square of Florence, near the famous Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. The monumental marble column is topped with a cross over a crown of fire.
The column was erected in honor of Saint Zenobius of Florence, the first bishop of Florence. He died around 430 AD.
In the 9th century, the remains of the bishop had to be moved from the church of San Lorenzo to another cathedral - Santa Reparata. The Church of San Lorenzo at that time was located outside the city walls and there was a hazard of Hungarian invasion.
One legend is connected with transfer of those remains. During transfer from one church to another, bishop remains accidentally touched an elm standing in the way. It was winter, so when the tree started to cover with leaves, it was considered a real miracle.
At the moment, the column stands at the very place where this elm once stood.
The exact time of the appearance of the column is not known, but it was recorded that it already existed in 1333.
How find the Column of Saint Zanobi
Exact address: Piazza del Duomo, Florence, Italy.
On the map:
How to get there by public transport:
- Nearest stop "Duomo Firenze", buses C1, C2