Florence commemorates 60th anniversary of Arno River flood

Florence marks the 60th anniversary of the devastating Arno River flood that occurred on November 4, 1966. The event, which submerged much of the city's art and history in mud, is being remembered through various cultural tributes.

Musician Marco Masini has scheduled a concert at the Mandela Forum for November 4 to honor the city and the “mud angels,” the volunteers who assisted affected families. Masini noted that his mother was among those volunteers.

Additionally, the MAD Murate Art District is hosting an exhibition titled “Arno. Stories of reconciliation between Florence and its river” by artist Roberto Ghezzi. Running from November 4, 2026, to January 4, 2027, the project explores the relationship between the city and the river through works such as naturographies, which involve immersing natural fabrics in the Arno's waters to create unpredictable environmental art.