In the nineteenth century Demidoff, a wealthy russian family, settled in Florence primarily for diplomatic, economic, and prestige reasons, finding the Tuscan city to be the ideal environment to consolidate their noble status and business interests.
Here are the main reasons for the move:
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- Diplomatic Appointment: The head of the family, Nikolay Demidov, was appointed Russian ambassador to the Grand Duchy of Tuscany. While he initially stayed in Rome, his diplomatic mission and the attraction of Florence’s cultural vibrancy led him to establish his permanent residence there in 1825, as noted in the SIUSA archival records.
- Investments and Status: In Florence, Nikolay purchased marshy land in San Donato in Polverosa, where he built the magnificent Villa San Donato. This allowed him to join the ranks of high European nobility; Grand Duke Leopold II subsequently titled him Prince of San Donato in 1837.
- Patronage and Philanthropy: The family chose Florence as the hub for their charitable and artistic activities. Nikolay founded schools and hospitals, earning the gratitude of the Florentines, who dedicated the marble monument to him still visible in Piazza Demidoff.
- Passion for Art: His son Anatoly Demidoff continued this tradition by purchasing and restoring the Pratolino Park (a former Medici estate), which today houses the famous Villa Demidoff.
Behind the diplomatic facade lies a spicier anecdote that made their departure from Rome quite abrupt.
The “issue” arose during the Carnival of 1824. Nicola Demidoff hosted a party in his Roman palace so lavish and wild that the festivities—complete with dancing and toasts—continued past midnight on Shrove Tuesday, spilling into the early hours of Ash Wednesday.
Here’s what went down:
- Offending the Pope: Continuing celebrations into the day marking the start of Lent was considered a grave act of irreverence toward the ecclesiastical authorities and Pope Leo XII, who was known for his moral rigor and strict restrictions on public festivities.
- The Ultimatum: The Holy See was not amused. It is said the Pope made it crystal clear that their “scandalous” conduct was no longer welcome in the Eternal City.
- The Tactical Move: To avoid further diplomatic incidents and seek a more liberal and tolerant atmosphere, Nicola Demidoff decided to pack up his bags (and his immense art collection) and move to Florence in 1825, where Grand Duke Leopold II was more than happy to welcome such a wealthy and influential family.
Once in Florence, the Demidoffs didn’t lose their habit of throwing grand parties, but they were much more careful not to challenge the liturgical calendar!
Have we given you a good reason to spend your next Carnival in Florence?