The Archconfraternity of Mercy is one of the quieter tourist attractions in Florence. For many a centuries, the Cathedral square, Piazza San Giovanni and Piazza del Duomo has been the focal point of religious activity in Florence. The Archconfraternity of Mercy does meaningful social and charitable work from the Cathedral square. The Cathedral square contains the following historical structures:
Baptistery of Saint John
Archbishop's Palace or Palazzo Arcivescovile
Pisan porphyry columns
Giotto's Bell Tower
Cathedral Canonries
Museum of the Opera del Duomo
Column of Saint Zanobius
Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (the Duomo)
Bigallo Portico
Archconfraternity of Mercy
The Archconfraternity of Mercy or Arciconfraternitą della Misericordia is the oldest and utmost respected Order of Florentines for charitable and social purposes. Plague was rampant in Florence in the 1520s and the Archconfraternity of Mercy or Arciconfraternitą della Misericordia was formed for succor to the sick and for tending to the dead. Michelangelo, the painter and sculptor was one of the members in the days when the Order wore red hoods. The former headquarters of the Archconfraternity of Mercy or Arciconfraternitą della Misericordia was the Loggia of the Bigallo, the home of the Bigallo orphanage.
Now from their newer headquarters in the Cathedral square itself, they run first-aid centers and ambulance services wearing black hoods. The members, all volunteers, run into a few thousands and the Order is funded by donations. And every Holy Thursday, the Cardinal of Florence washes the feet of eleven workers from the Archconfraternity of Mercy. On one of your forthcoming Florence tours, do make it a point to visit the Archconfraternity of Mercy and the Jewish synagogue.
Travel.mapsofworld.com provides description of Archconfraternity of Mercy.
| 
