Fortezza da Basso (or the Fortress of St. John the Baptist, after the patron saint of Florence) is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Commissioned by Alessandro de' Medici, the first Duke of Florence, designed by architect Antonio da Sangallo the Younger and constructed between 1534 and 1536, since 1967 it has been the main congress and exhibition centre for Florence and central Italy, thanks to its strategic location in the city's historic centre.

With an overall surface area of over 80,000 m2 (55,000 m2 of which is roofed), Fortezza da Basso is the perfect venue for fairs and trade shows, such as the historic Florence International Crafts Fair, as well as large congresses, high-profile receptions and gala events.

A unique location in the world, combining perfectly restored historic settings, such as the Monumental Area, the Teatrino Lorenese and the Polveriera, with modern pavilions such as the Spadolini Pavilion (25,620 m2 on three levels) and the Cavaniglia Pavilion, opened in 1996 and constructed to perfectly integrate the 16th century wall on one side of the building.

The restoration of the entire area involved carefully designing the optimal spatial layout with the requirements of organisers, exhibitors and visitors in mind. Access to the pavilions and internal spaces is through three entrances suitable for vehicles and pedestrians (Porta Santa Maria Novella, Porta Faenza and Porta Mugnone), and two pedestrian-only entrances (Porta alle Carra and Porta Soccorso alla Campagna).