This evening (August, 8, 2025) and throughout the night, the Arnolfo Tower of Palazzo Vecchio and the city’s historic gates will remain unlit. The decision, announced by Mayor Sara Funaro, is intended as a symbolic protest against Israel’s plan for military control over the Gaza Strip, recently approved by the security cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
According to the mayor’s office, the blackout is meant to draw attention to the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza and to express Florence’s opposition to policies viewed as violating human rights and prolonging the conflict. City officials described the initiative as a way to “raise awareness and keep public attention focused on the suffering of civilians.”
The administration stressed that Florence, a city with a long tradition of solidarity and support for peace initiatives, is calling for an immediate ceasefire, the delivery of humanitarian aid to the population of Gaza, the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas, and renewed efforts for a lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians.
The lights on the Arnolfo Tower and the gates will remain off until sunrise.
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