Category: Blending Magazine

Piazza D’Azeglio: The Heartbeat of Florence’s Underground Past

written by Emily Gibson

This blog feature is an exclusive bonus installment to our Spring issue of Blending Magazine. After you finish reading, be sure to explore the rest of the magazine online—just follow this link to download the full Spring 2025 edition:
https://jschoolfua.com/images/BM/BM_151.pdf

An Unexpected Encounter 

How did I end up here, and what do I do now that I am? Surely, this is not that enchanted city where nearly 11 million visit annually, I reasoned. Where are the crowds or the music often needed to drown out the noise of the through traffic? “Michelangelo!” called a woman’s voice. I turned to see what art she could be referring to and was met by a young child with blonde hair and blue eyes running joyfully toward a playset. In a place where tourists spend an average of three billion dollars every year, an experience here, inconspicuous within the Florentine jungle, cost me only time. 

“It’s hallowed ground,” said former Stanford professor and self-made historian Albert Gidari. “You may not know the history in detail or who died and what they did, but you just know, and that feeling conveys the place, so if you want someplace to just reflect for a few minutes on what life was like and why it was important, that’s what spirit is within that park.” 

A Quiet Corner of Buried Defiance 

Piazza Massimo D’Azeglio is a quaint 165-year-old square nestled in the corner of Florence’s city center between Campo Di Marte station and Sant’Ambrogio and, at first glance, a seemingly unusual site for a place where mass tourism has taken a toll. The neighborhood is still inhabited by residents where children play, dogs run, friends converse, and the elderly rest, but when I looked around at the beautiful, historical buildings, some embodying the prestigious liberty style, it was hard for me to imagine war was once present for which cause many lives ended there. 

I shifted my gaze to the heart of the square where water spurted from the beak of a bronze crane — a symbol of good luck — and I wondered whether luck was enough for those brave men and women who once held anti-fascist meetings right here under the nose of the proponents themselves. I tried to imagine myself where I was, only at a time when deafening uncertainty filled the air. 

“Anyone hiding material of any kind useful to the German Armed Forces or the German Nation is liable to be sentenced to death,” stated the Commander General (qtd. in Supporting Radio CORA: ‘resistant’ Arcetri in the memoirs of Michele Della Corte, 17).  

Echoes of Joy Amid Whispers of Loss – WW2 

Initially, I did not perceive the tangible references to a WW2 history still pulsing beneath the surface, but when I saw the children chasing one another up and down the paved piazza, I could not help but reflect on the childish games I once played, such as hide and seek, wherein I knew too well the feeling of rushed adrenaline coupled with fear when my hiding places were eventually found out. In the end, though, it was just a game, and my enemies were still my friends.

Hence, I struggled to picture the square before the 1940s, when there were large iron gates filling the space where the sidewalks now reside, making the park an impossible hideout for 80 years. When the square finally experienced newfound freedom, it came at the expense of Florence’s citizens. The gates were donated and melted to make the weapons forging the real gates around the freedoms of the people as uniformed soldiers of the Nazi Regime filled the city, stripping away what I have often taken for granted: safety, basic rights, and life itself. Many, I learned, would surrender to their cause, but others would stand in opposition, risking it all for hope. 

A Final Transmission of Hope 

A wise man once proved there is no greater love than for a man to lay down his life for a friend. Thus, what Resistance leaders Enrico Bocci, Italo Piccagli, and Luigi Morandi, among others, did on behalf of their friends and beloved city was nothing short of great love. On the fateful day of June 7, 1944, Nazi soldiers raided the top floor of Piazza D’Azeglio 12 — the final hiding place of Radio CORA. Therein, resistance men and women endangered their lives to transmit secret messages and hope to the Italian population. The three partisans were captured, tortured, and killed. 

I walked to the northeastern side of Piazza D’Azeglio to see for myself what remained of those heroes, and I was met by their bronze memorial. I paused for a moment of silence and reflection. 

An Invitation 

My money is useless in D’Azeglio because the peace, joy, and freedom the square offers came at an invaluable investment I may never fully understand. Its rich history whispers through the grounds and nearby corners, where the Jewish synagogue still miraculously illuminates the skyline. Nonetheless, individuals visit D’Azeglio for various reasons, such as convenience and fond pastimes like Florentines Tobias Zerella, Anne Whittaker, and Tommaso Tempesti. Others like Gidari, who dedicated years to uncovering the stories of the resistance movement, visit because the historical site still speaks to them today. In any case, D’Azeglio serves as an invitation to enjoy the present and an opportunity to reflect on the past. Amid all Florence has to offer, I have discovered that if one has the time, Piazza D’Azeglio, the heartbeat of Florence’s underground past, offers an experience that mere money cannot afford. 

“If you’re there for a week or more and want to breathe in Florence, it’s just such a pleasure to go and sit on a bench for an hour or two with a coffee… and watch the real people that live there enjoying their city, and just imagine what the city was like,” said Gidari.

The CPA’s Role in Florence Subculture

written by Katherine Seiler and Isabella McCarthy

This CPA deep dive is an exclusive bonus installment in our Spring issue of Blending Magazine. After you finish reading, be sure to explore the rest of the magazine online—just follow this link to download the full Spring 2025 edition:
https://jschoolfua.com/images/BM/BM_151.pdf

Origins

The Centro Popolare Autogestito (CPA) is a self-managed, community-driven space that offers a platform for political activism, art, and social movement, contrasting the city’s historical and tourist-centric culture. Founded in the 1980s, it began as an escape from heroin, social isolation, and marginalizations that were often present during these times. The group initially occupied a nursery school in early 1989 and transformed it into a community space where people could gather to address social and political issues. They had to move to a mechanical workshop later in the year, and finally moved into their current building in 2001 after the old school was closed down years prior. Nicolo, a member of the CPA, described the space as “squatters that take over abandoned places”, but this practice can be regarded as a way of the CPA reclaiming unused properties and transforming them into usable, community-driven spaces. 

Hub of Creativity and Activity

Over the years, the CPA has evolved, but its core ideals in anti-fascism, community, and artistic expression remain intact and are present throughout its facility. Today, the CPA is a vibrant cultural hub hosting a variety of facilities, including a gym, library, art studio, cinema, and computer spaces. Classes in karate, ceramics, art, and more give people a chance to develop both personally and creatively. These spaces provide members the opportunity to connect, create, and grow. 

Through a visit to the ceramics studio, managed by Roberto, we learned that the studio was established six years ago, and it has become a place of creativity and connection for many. The process is simple: pay a small fee, make two pieces to learn the basics, and then create whatever you want. There are no formal teachers; everyone helps one another, and the focus is on learning together. Through regulars like Ciara, Irene, and Vitoria, it became clear how much they valued the sense of community the studio provides. They worked together on each other’s pieces, sharing tips and experiences, fostering a sense of belonging.

Current Day

Visits to the CPA reveal the diversity of its community. Nicolo noted how younger generations would turn to the CPA to utilize study spaces and as an opportunity to socialize. It was mentioned that some children would skip school, hop the fence, and hang out at the CPA instead of being at school. This seems to be a tradition that has continued over time, as many members laughed and remarked, “just like we used to do!”. Though one member said, “The Italian population is not young, so there are a lot fewer young people here,” when talking about the age of people involved with the CPA. 

The CPA’s finance model is that almost all activities are free of charge, except for concerts and the initial ceramics fee. The money needed to cover rent and utilities comes from the concert revenue. The CPA ensures that anyone, regardless of financial situation, can access the resources available. 

The CPA is also focused on helping the community, as they were instrumental in organizing large-scale food and resource drives during the pandemic. Despite their history of tensions with law enforcement, members of the CPA shared that during the pandemic, the police would give out the CPA’s number to individuals who needed food but could not afford it. At this time, law enforcement recognized the value and importance of some of the work that the CPA does. 

Expanding on the relationship with law enforcement, the center has a longstanding reputation for being anti-authoritarian and believing that the police represent an oppressive force. The CPA does not tolerate drugs and believes in alcohol moderation. People do smoke weed within the CPA, and though it is not legal, the cops do not bother people who smoke it on the CPA property.

For many, the CPA provides a space where people can escape, create, and express themselves freely. Despite facing numerous challenges, the CPA continues to thrive, staying true to its core values. It’s a place for the marginalized, the artists, and the activists and a space that has evolved but remains firmly rooted in its commitment to community. 

The “Made in Italy” Tag: A Legacy of Quality and The Loss of its Reputation

written by Alison Abbruzzese, Tyler Kirwan, Carla Lewinsky, Kendall Kreidel, Madeline Jacaruso, Justin Turner & Sophia Fitzpatrick

This “Made in Italy” deep dive is an exclusive bonus installment in our Spring issue of Blending Magazine. After you finish reading, be sure to explore the rest of the magazine online—just follow this link to download the full Spring 2025 edition:
https://jschoolfua.com/images/BM/BM_151.pdf

The ‘Made in Italy’ label has long been synonymous with elegance, craftsmanship, and luxury. Originating in the mid-20th century, this designation became a hallmark of superior quality and refined style, positioning Italy as a global leader in fashion. However, while the label continues to hold significant prestige, it faces new challenges in an era dominated by globalization and fast fashion. Today, this well-known label can often be misleading and not representative of authentic Italian products. Misleadingly claiming ‘Made in Italy’ does not just deceive consumers but creates a false narrative of Italian culture, heritage, and values. As a country known for being a leader in fashion and skilled craftsmanship, this deceptive tactic utilized by global mass producers can be incredibly harmful to local artisans and Italian small businesses.

The Birth of ‘Made in Italy’

The ‘Made in Italy’ tag emerged in the 1950s, coinciding with several important reforms in Italian history. In the aftermath of World War II, Italy sought to reform its economy and national identity. Fashion played a crucial role in this transformation as Italian designers began showcasing their collections on international runways. These fashion shows, which gained traction in cities like Florence and Milan, introduced the world to Italian tailoring, detailed fabrics, and exceptional craftsmanship.

During this period, designers such as Emilio Pucci, Salvatore Feragamo, and Giorgio Armani began to shape Italy’s reputation as a hub for high fashion, with its strong attention to detail and innovative designs. By the late 1950s and early 1960s, ‘Made in Italy’ had become a mark of prominence, attracting consumers who sought a premium quality and exclusivity in their clothing.

The ‘Made in Italy’ Campaign of the 1980s

Building on its growing fashion reputation, Italy launched the ‘Made in Italy’ campaign in the 1980s. This initiative was designed to capitalize on the country’s flourishing luxury industry and further establish Italian products as the pinnacle of style and refinement. The campaign was highly successful, positioning Italian brands like Gucci, Prada, Versace, and Dolce & Gabbana as leaders in the global fashion scene. At the heart of the campaign was the idea of selling not just clothing but a sophisticated and exclusive lifestyle. Consumers embraced this concept, driving an increased demand for Italian-made goods and reinforcing the country’s dominance in high fashion. The ‘Made in Italy’ label became a coveted symbol.

The Modern Perception of ‘Made in Italy’

The perception of ‘Made in Italy’ remains highly esteemed, with many consumers willing to pay a premium for products bearing the label. This reputation is built on a legacy of high-quality craftsmanship, exceptional tailoring, and timeless style—qualities that continue to be powerful selling points for Italian brands. Beyond its cultural significance, the label also plays a vital role in Italy’s economy. According to the Clean Clothes Campaign, “In 2021, the textile-clothing-footwear sector contributed approximately €24 billion to Italy’s trade balance, accounting for around 11% of the country’s total export earnings.”

However, the integrity of the ‘Made in Italy’ label has come under increasing scrutiny due to shifts in the global fashion industry. One of the most pressing concerns is the rise of fast fashion, which has fundamentally altered both consumer behavior and industry dynamics. As demand for affordable, trend-driven clothing reaches new heights, many brands have been forced to adapt—sometimes at the expense of quality. In an effort to remain competitive, some companies have begun mass-producing garments with lower-quality materials while still capitalizing on the status associated with the ‘Made in Italy’ name. This growing tension raises important questions about authenticity, sustainability, and the future of Italy’s fashion identity.

Challenges Facing ‘Made in Italy’ Today

While the ‘Made in Italy’ label continues to carry weight, several factors have led to its dilution. Some brands exploit legal loopholes to use the ‘Made in Italy’ tag without following traditional standards. In some cases, only the final touches of a product are completed in Italy, allowing companies to label them as Italian-made despite most of the production occurring elsewhere. With these issues occurring, the fashion industry began a significant shift from custom tailoring to ready-to-wear clothing. While Italy once dominated the luxury tailoring market, the increasing preference for off-the-rack fashion has reduced the exclusivity of Italian craftsmanship.

Preserving the Prestige of ‘Made in Italy’

To maintain the integrity of the ‘Made in Italy’ label, industry leaders and policymakers must take steps to protect its authenticity. Stricter regulations on the use of the label could help prevent its exploitation and ensure that only genuinely Italian-made products have the mark.

Additionally, supporting traditional craftsmanship through government incentives and industry collaboration can help keep Italy’s reputation for excellence in fashion. Moreover, embracing sustainable and ethical production practices could bring back the appeal of ‘Made in Italy’ in today’s fashion landscape. As consumers become more conscious of quality and sustainability, Italian brands that emphasize authentic craftsmanship and responsible sourcing may regain their competitive edge.

The ‘Made in Italy’ tag represents a legacy of fashion excellence. While it continues to carry prominence, it faces significant challenges in a rapidly evolving fashion industry. Mass production and fast fashion may dilute its authenticity and undermine its value; however, with the right measures, Italy can safeguard and even bolster the prestige of its most celebrated label.