The marriage of Robert Browning to Elizabeth Barrett was carried out secretly in 1846, because of her father’s strong objections. The Brownings reached Florence when Elizabeth had already reached fame as a poetess, while her husband, who was several years younger, was as yet to become known. They were attracted by the history of the city, but also by the struggle for Italian independence. The Brownings fit into the British colony of numerous ex-pats present there and befriended many famous Italians. Elizabeth died in 1861 and was buried in the protestant (called “English”) Cemetery in Florence, which dedicated a plaque to her memory, describing her poetry as a golden ring uniting Italy and England. The home was dubbed “Casa Guidi” by the writer herself to render the idea of a family residence. The owner Eton College with the help of Landmark Trust have maintained the original atmosphere. Some of the furniture comes from the Barrett family and some from the Browning family, and on the whole the apartment remains as it was in the nineteenth century.
VISITING HOURS
April through November,
Monday - Wednesday - Friday, 3.00 p.m. - 6.00 p.m.
