On the 11th of May 1589, the de’ Medici family and an exclusive group of International guests, gathered to assist to a unique event: a naval battle (Naumachia) in the courtyard of Pitti Palace. The show was part of the celebrations for the wedding of Ferdinando I de’ Medici, the ruling family of Florence, and Cristina Lorena, the favorite niece of the Queen of France.
This incredible representation aimed to give strength and prestige to the de’ Medici family at the presence of the most powerful and ancient European National Monarchies. This spectacular water entertainment was made possible thanks to the great inventiveness of Bernardo Buontalenti.
The courtyard of the Palace was made water-proof for the occasion and flooded with water two meters deep. The battleship was a representation of a Crusade, the battle of Lepanto. On one side the Christians, symbolising the alliance between the de’ Medici family and the French Monarchy, on the other the Turks. In total, 144 soldiers and 18 ships, expressly built for the occasion, took part in the battle.
A scenographic structure, representing a Turkish fortress, was placed close to the Boboli Garden and was finally conquered by the Christian side. Looking at Pitti Palace today, it is difficult to imagine that something like this could have happened in the main courtyard of the Palace! Imagine the astonishment of all the guests assisting to such an extraordinary event!
