The historic center of Florence, situated along the Arno River, has endured various geohydrological disasters, including floods and landslides. Riverbanks were built for city defense and dates back to ancient times. This study focuses on the investigation of the mortars of three Florentine riverbanks – Lungarno degli Acciaiuoli, Lungarno delle Grazie, and Lungarno Torrigiani – from mineralogical-petrographic, physical, and mechanical perspectives. These riverbanks, crucial for protecting the city from floods, exhibit distinct characteristics in terms of construction, materials, and historical developments. Analysis revealed similarities and differences of raw materials and constructive techniques. Petrographic and mineralogical analyses highlight the presence of various minerals and aggregates, indicating the use of traditional techniques and materials such as Pietra Alberese for lime production. TGA and SEM-EDS techniques further confirm the hydraulic behavior of the mortars. Overall, this study offers valuable insights into the construction and preservation of historical riverbanks, contributing to the conservation of cultural heritage in Florence.