Why this Renaissance fortress in Florence opens to the public only once a year, and why you should care

At the edge of Florence’s historic center stands an imposing Renaissance fortress, a gem hidden in plain sight, just a short distance from Piazza della Signoria. The former Medici residence is generally closed to visitors, but there is one special occasion when everyone can discover the unique charm of this masterpiece, designed in the 16th century by Giuliano da Sangallo.

It is here, among the austere architecture of the Fortezza da Basso, that MIDA, the International Handicraft Exhibition, has been taking place for 90 years. Since 1931 this fair has celebrated the quality and creativity of the finest handmade craftsmanship. The event is therefore an unmissable opportunity to experience the best of local and international artisanal work, while also being captivated by the fortress itself, which for this special event opens its gates to visitors from all over the world.

If you visit Florence between April and May, don’t miss the chance for a full immersion in creativity, culture, and innovation. MIDA, the International Handicraft Exhibition, offers all this and more, not only thanks to its truly special setting, but also because within the thick walls of the Fortezza da Basso you can discover the most authentic craftsmanship, rooted in centuries of traditions, techniques, and ancient knowledge that have made Made in Italy renowned around the world.

In 2026 MIDA turns 90th while keeping together in one place, today just as yesterday, the finest artesans. The skilfull hands of these women and men, balancing the legacy of an illustrious past with brilliant innovations, continue to reinterpret handmade craftsmanship in a contemporary key, creating extraordinary works rooted in the past but still looking firmly toward the future. Wood, ceramic, metal, fabric and many other materials are thus transformed into something new, original, and unique.

Have you ever thought about bringing home a travel memory that is more than just a simple souvenir, but a truly unique object because it embodies centuries of tradition? Or about watching one-of-a-kind creations come to life before your eyes, and even experiencing the thrill of making something with your own hands, under the expert guidance of a Florentine artisan?

If you want to enjoy one of the most authentic travel experiences Florence has to offer, then MIDA is definitely the place to be.

In a city where art can be felt at every step, this is not just a fair, but an international cultural event where you are not merely a visitor. Here, you can meet the artisans, learn about their stories and the territories they come from, take part in workshops and live demonstrations, and even join guided tours to discover the fascinating history of the Fortezza da Basso.

Hundreds of Italian and international artisans make this event truly unique, as they are carefully selected for the originality of their creations and the quality of their craftsmanship. And while tradition is very much at home here, there is always room for innovation, with works from the world of contemporary design that explore the most cutting-edge techniques. 

Moreover, MIDA is a fully sustainable, eco-friendly event, featuring environmentally conscious setups and a strong focus on energy efficiency.

When you visit MIDA, you have the unique opportunity to also discover the Fortezza da Basso, the historic Renaissance fortress famous in Florence for hosting major fashion events like Pitti Moda, but otherwise closed to the public. Yet, this jewel of 16th-century architecture is a treasure trove of history and culture that is absolutely worth exploring.

During the International Handicraft Exhibition you can enjoy guided tours created for the occasion, that will take you through courtyards and underground alleys, where centuries of history have unfolded, since Florence stopped being a republic and became a duchy. Following in the footsteps of the nobles and generals who once walked these halls, you’ll pass by monumental fireplaces where soldiers used to warm themselves, visit the galleys that once held illustrious prisoners, and discover the secret passages soldiers used in emergencies.

You will also experience the thrill of seeing the large, extraordinary brick dome built using the same technique Brunelleschi used for the Duomo. And that very dome, probably Florence’s most iconic monument, frames the view from the top of the fortress’s mastio. From the very heart of the Renaissance fortress, you can enjoy a rare and striking panorama of the city, making your experience all the more captivating.

The 90th edition of MIDA, the International Handicraft Exhibition, will take place in Florence from April 25 to May 3, 2026.

Don't miss the chance to live a magic experience that you won't forget. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online to avoid long queues, starting from the end of February, through the brand new website MIDA has launched for this important anniversary. 

Reduced rates are available for visitors with disabilities, while entry is free for accompanying persons as well as children under twelve.

The Fortezza dal Basso hosting the event offers parking on a first-come, first-served basis. Inside, there are also dining options and a self-service area on the Spadolini Pavilion Attic Floor, where vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meals are also available.

To visit MIDA just get to Fortezza da Basso, centrally situated, right outside the ZTL (limited traffic zone), yet well integrated into the city and very easy to reach on foot or by public transport.

On foot: From Florence’s Santa Maria Novella train station, the Renaissance fortress can be reached in about 10 minutes by walking along Via degli Avelli and Via Fiume, following the signs for Fortezza da Basso. From Piazza della Signoria, simply walk Via Cavour or Via Faenza and then follow the signs.

By public transport: bus lines 1, 6, 14, 17, and 23 stop at Fortezza da Basso / Stazione Fortezza. Alternatively, tram lines T1 and T2 stop at Alamanni / Stazione, from where it’s a 5-minute walk.

By car: reach Viale Filippo Strozzi, just 4 km from the A1 motorway exit, taking care not to enter the city’s ZTL. There are several parking options nearby, in addition to the fortress’s own parking lot.

From the airport: from Florence Airport Amerigo Vespucci, you can either take a taxi for the roughly 7 km journey, or reach the Santa Maria Novella train station and continue on foot or by bus.