Il Bel San Giovanni Award 2025: Florentine excellence honored at Palazzo Vecchio

In the Salone dei Cinquecento, Gruppo Editoriale receives recognition from the Society of St. John the Baptist

Florence pays tribute to one of its oldest and most emblematic institutions. The Società di San Giovanni Battista, a historic volunteer organization that for 230 years has preserved, promoted, and passed down the city’s traditions, history, and festivities, officially inaugurated the anniversary celebrations with a solemn event in the symbolic heart of the Tuscan capital.

On Thursday, January 29, 2025, at 5:30 PM, the Salone dei Cinquecento in Palazzo Vecchio hosted the first commemorative event for the 230th Anniversary of the Founding of the Società di San Giovanni Battista, attended by representatives of the Society, the Deputation, Florence’s mayor Sara Funaro, and numerous city authorities.Founded at the end of the 18th century, the Società di San Giovanni Battista has for over two centuries served as a cultural and civic reference point for the city. Its ongoing commitment to preserving Florentine traditions and its strong connection to the patron saint, San Giovanni, have made it a true identity-building institution, capable of spanning eras while keeping the community’s sense of belonging alive.

Premio Il Bel San Giovanni

The January 29 event marks the beginning of a year-long celebration aimed at highlighting not only the Society’s history but also its active role in Florence’s present and future.During the ceremony, the “Il Bel San Giovanni” Award, now in its 35th edition, was also presented. This recognition is bestowed by the Society to institutions, organizations, and individuals who have distinguished themselves for their contribution to the cultural, social, and economic development of Florence.

Gruppo Editoriale

For 2025, the Il Bel San Giovanni Award was granted to:

• Luigi Cherubini Conservatory of Music, Florence

• Stefano Ricci S.p.A.

• Gruppo Editoriale

Three excellence-driven institutions that, in different fields, embody the value of culture, enterprise, and communication within contemporary Florentine life.