PALAZZO DEI CERCHI (Florence, Italy)
Since the spring 2004, Palazzo dei Cerchi has been Kent State University headquarters in Florence. This historic structure is located in the heart of the historic city between Piazza della Signoria and the Duomo. Built in 1250, Palazzo dei Cerchi is considered to be one of the oldest and most historically significant structures in Florence. The interior has undergone extensive restoration. It includes painted wood beamed ceilings, and frescoes from the schools of the early Renaissance masters Cimabue and Giotto.
The Palazzo hosts the administrative offices of Kent State University Florence, as well as studios, classrooms, and a lecture hall. The lecture hall is large and well equipped with state of the art AV equipments.
LIBRARY
The library of Palazzo dei Cerchi has been under continuing development by for a number of years. Housed within are collections in the areas of Italian history, Florentine history, medieval and Renaissance art and architecture, interior design, urban design and theory. Additional collections include fashion design and merchandising and general studies.
SECURITY
Security has become a topic of increasing concern. Students are given a series of orientation sessions upon arrival. One of these is a presentation by a police officer who discusses the differences in the laws, expectations as a guest of another country, and what to do in the event of an emergency situation. The administrative staff monitors the international, and internal situation, and make concerted effort to inform the students in the event of any unusual conditions. The facility has been fitted with a computerized surveillance and key card entry system.
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