An influential family: the Bardi

The Bardi family formed an extremely wealthy and powerful dynasty of Florentine bankers, one of the most prominent lineages of medieval Florence. They were owners of a merchant company among the largest in Europe, in close relationship with the Pope, the king of Naples, the King of England and the all-powerful house of Medici.

In 1290, they had established banks all over Europe including England, Spain, Greece, Brussels, France and many more countries.

Like other families belonging to the richest and most influential classes of their age, the Bardi clan decided to leave their own tangible mark within Santa Croce for all to see. They therefore secured the patronage of the chapel closest to the high altar, a position held to be an immense privilege.

Giotto at the time was a highly sought-after artist, who received many commissions from all over Italy. It was therefore no surprise that the Bardi family decided to entrust to him the task of decorating their chapel in Santa Croce.

At the time, patronage in churches served to hopefully guarantee the salvation of the souls of the patron through their donations intended for good deeds, or to safeguard and create art but above all, to increase the family prestige. Donors and philanthropists have always been present in the history of Santa Croce and thankfully still continue to support us to this day.