Marzocco Self-researched

The Marzocco is the heraldic lion that is a symbol of Florence. Donatello's version was apparently the first piece of public secular sculpture commissioned by the Republic of Florence, in the late 14th century. The lion originally stood at the heart of the city in the Piazza della Signoria at the end of the platform attached to the Palazzo Vecchio called the ringhiera, from which speakers traditionally harangued the crowd.

This iconic representation of Florentine civic pride holds a shield bearing the lily emblem of Florence. The original is now in the Bargello, with a copy in the original location.