Discovering Palazzo Vecchio: A Visitor's Guide to Florence's Historic Palace

Palazzo Vecchio stands as a testament to Florence's storied past, from its rise to power to its Renaissance pinnacle. Visitors can traverse the grand Vasari staircase, admire the Salone dei Cinquecento, and delve into the Medici apartments, each corner revealing a piece of Florentine history.

Below the palace, Roman ruins await discovery, showcasing Florence's ancient origins. Palazzo Vecchio, once a fortress and the seat of Florentine and Medici power from the 14th to the 16th century, has evolved from a ducal residence to a city hall, and now, a public museum.

Let this guide enhance your visit to Palazzo Vecchio.

Exterior

The fortress-like Palazzo Vecchio, with its offset tower and battlements, was built around a medieval defensive tower. At the entrance, replicas of Michelangelo's David and Donatello's works greet visitors.

Cortile di Michelozzo and Ground Floor

The first courtyard, adorned with a Verrocchio fountain, leads to the Camera dell'Arme and the grand staircase to the main floor, designed by Vasari.

Salone dei Cinquecento

The Salone dei Cinquecento is the heart of the palace, with a 21-meter-high ceiling and walls lined with historical paintings. Michelangelo's Genius of Victory is a standout piece here.

Sala dei Gigli and Medici Apartments

The upper floor features the Sala dei Gigli, adorned with a Ghirlandaio fresco and Donatello's Judith and Holofernes. The Medici apartments, including Eleonora di Toledo's rooms, showcase stunning frescoes and offer a terrace view of Florence.

Sala delle Carte Geografiche (Geographical Map Room)

This room, once a Medici treasury, displays painted leather maps and a large Mappa Mundi globe, illustrating the 16th-century known world.

The Arnolfo Tower

Climb 233 steps to the tower's gallery for panoramic city views, passing the "little hotel" prison cell on the way.

Roman Theater Excavations

Underneath Palazzo Vecchio lie the remnants of a first-century Roman theater, accessible through guided tours.

Traces of Florence Exhibition

The "Traces of Florence" exhibition showcases the city's evolution through art, from the Renaissance to the 20th century.

Take a Tour

Guided tours of Palazzo Vecchio offer insights into its history, art, and secret passages. Special tours, including those inspired by Dan Brown's 'Inferno,' are available.

Learn a Florentine Art

Workshops teach the arts of fresco painting and gilding, allowing visitors to create their own Renaissance-inspired artwork.

Where to Stay near Palazzo Vecchio

Hotels near Palazzo Vecchio offer proximity to Florence's major attractions, with options ranging from luxury to budget-friendly accommodations.

• Hotel Bernini and San Firenze Suites & Spa are close by, offering historic charm.
• FH Calzaiuoli Hotel and Hotel Berchielli provide scenic views.
• For value, consider Hotel Davanzati and Hotel Santa Croce.

Tips & Tactics: How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Palazzo Vecchio

• Allocate at least 90 minutes for your visit.
• The tower may be closed due to weather and is not suitable for everyone.
• Reserve tours early to ensure availability.
• Night visits to the battlements are available in summer for an additional fee.

Address

• Piazza Signoria, Florence
• http://museicivicifiorentini.comune.fi.it/palazzovecchio 

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More Things to See and Do in Florence: Explore the Medici's Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens, and other grand Florentine homes in our Visitors Guide to the top palaces in Florence.

Exploring beyond Florence: Florence's central location makes it easy to visit other Italian cities like Bologna and Rome, accessible by train.