06/02/2026
In Florence, legend mingles with myth in surprising ways. The Column of San Zanobi is a case in point. It was erected in the 5th century, some years after the first bishop of Florence, Zenobius, died. There was once an old and withered elm tree in its place. When the mortal remains of the bishop were being transferred from San Lorenzo to Santa Reparata’s cathedral, the coffin accidentally hit the tree causing it to blossom even though it was December. There whole of Florence thought it was a miracle, so they decided to build a column on the spot. Many years later, in 1333, a devastating flood swept the column away. The year after, the Florentines, who are very superstitious, decided to rebuild it. The one that stands on the square today is a clear example of tradition, myth and magic (although only the base is original, the cross at the top is a replica of the original kept at the Opera del Duomo Museum!).
