Francesco I de' Medici

What people wore

The trend of men wearing beards

While once clean-shaven faces were common, by the mid-sixteenth century, about ninety-five out of every hundred Florentine men adopted the trend of wearing beards, which was considered more masculine. Those who chose to remain clean-shaven were often mocked as old-fashioned and labeled with the derisive term zazzeroni.

Daily life

Diet and food preservation methods

Because refrigerators did not exist, food was heavily spiced to help preserve it, leading to gout among the rich who consumed significant amounts of meat. Poorer families relied on simpler diets consisting mainly of vegetables, legumes, and animal innards.

Work

Work day dictated by church bells

The working day typically began at dawn, regulated by church bells, and lasted until sunset, with pauses for meals at the third and ninth hours. Night work was strictly prohibited.

Music

Civic wind ensembles played for celebrations

Civic wind bands known as pifferi, typically consisting of shawms and trombones, provided music for major public ceremonies, banquets, and religious festivals.

At the table

Meat as a rare treat

When a pig was slaughtered, it was customary for neighbors to share blood sausage as a gesture of friendship and good luck. Meat was otherwise rarely consumed by the poor, reserved primarily for special occasions like holidays.

Getting around

River transport between Florence and Pisa

Travel by river between Florence and Pisa took at least two days under optimal conditions, often relying on wind, poles, or being towed from the bank by men and animals. Boats were frequently stopped by tolls, weather, or natural obstacles like weirs.

What it cost

Meat prices during crisis periods

During times of crisis, a pound of veal cost between 40 and 50 soldi, while donkey meat was available for one carlino.