There is growing unrest at the Basilica of Santo Spirito in Florence, where Augustinian friars are trying to stop plans to turn part of the complex into a residence for the elderly. The building, built by Filippo Brunelleschi in 1481, was historically divided into two areas: one for the friars and the other used as barracks by the Italian army. With the cessation of military use of the area, the Ministry of Defense issued a tender to assign the property, which was won in 2022 by a company specializing in residences for the elderly. Religious people, however, disagree with the decision and oppose the division of the convent. Father Giuseppe Pagano, prior of the basilica, told the microphones of the TV show Pomeriggio Cinque, “We are ready to occupy the convent and we will do everything to stop the work”. The friars are calling for a meeting with Defense Minister Guido Crosetto and the Archbishop of Florence to raise awareness of the implications of turning the historic complex into a luxury senior residence.