Palazzo Vecchio Cortile della Dogana Fonte dei Leoni, (detail)
Leoncina by Beatrice Brandini
The restoration work on the *Fonti dei Leoni* (Lions’ Fountains) and the *Cortile della Dogana* (Customs Courtyard) at Palazzo Vecchio—one of the most evocative and historically rich sites in Florence—has been completed.
The project, valued at 50,000 euros and spanning 60 days, was made possible through the support of the *Scuola del Cuoio* (Leather School), as part of the Municipality of Florence’s “Florence I Care” initiative.
The restoration has restored new beauty to the fountains, the lion sculptures, the decorative elements, and the statue of the Electress Palatine, by recovering their original surfaces and colors.
Palazzo Vecchio Cortile della Dogana Fonte dei Leoni
Yet, this project carries a deeply human significance. The Gori family, who lead the *Scuola del Cuoio*, dedicated the restoration to the memory of Tommaso Melani, who passed away prematurely in New York.
“When we last met in April,” recalls Barbara Gori, CEO of the *Scuola del Cuoio*, “Tommaso pointed out to me that in the United States, citizens themselves actively contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage. His perspective struck me—the idea that participating in the care of one’s city’s historic sites is a tangible way to look after them and feel part of a community.”
It is a gesture of great sensitivity, transforming the memory of a loved one into a precious gift for the city.
A beautiful example of how art, memory, and love can come together—restoring beauty to the past while leaving a meaningful legacy for future generations.
Councilor Giovanni Bettarini unveiling the plaque in memory of Tommaso Melani
“Safeguarding Palazzo Vecchio means protecting the history and identity of Florence,” said Councilor for Culture Giovanni Bettarini.
Wishing you all the very best!
Beatrice