ORSANMICHELE, New Market Loggia

After Orsanmichele, I suggest visiting another loggia nearby that's called the Loggia del Mercato Nuovo, or New Market Loggia, or more popularly, Loggia del Porcellino, or Piglet Loggia.

But first take a look at the nearby  Arte della Lana, or Wool Trade palace, which is quite ancient but has been significantly restored and is connected to the upper floor of Orsanmichele by a bridge. The palace was the headquarters of the mighty Wool Trade, which was the trade association for wool mill workers. Note also the 14th-century tabernacle on the corner of the building.

From the names not only of the palaces but also the streets, you've probably already realized that you're standing in a part of the city that's closely linked to the history of medieval corporations which gathered here to defend merchants and artisans, but also doctors and notaries, and even barbers.

Via Calimala, for example, takes its name from one of the oldest and most powerful corporations of luxury fabric manufacturers and merchants....