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Palazzo Vecchio
Photo by Jason Achterberg - Powered by Google

History

Palazzo Vecchio was originally built between the 13th and 14th centuries as the seat of the city government under the Republic of Florence. Over the centuries, it underwent significant transformations, including a major renovation during the 16th century under Cosimo I de’ Medici, who turned it into his residence and renamed it Palazzo Vecchio, meaning “”Old Palace.”” Today, it serves as the seat of the Mayor of Florence and various municipal offices, while also housing the Museo dei Ragazzi and the Cinquecento Hall.

How to Get There

Palazzo Vecchio is conveniently located in Piazza della Signoria, one of Florence’s most iconic squares. You can easily reach it by:

  • Bus: The C1, C2, and D bus lines stop near Piazza della Signoria.
  • Subway: The closest subway station is Unita, a 15-minute walk away.
  • Car: Type P.za della Signoria, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy into your GPS app for directions.

Attractions

  1. Piazza della Signoria: The square in front of Palazzo Vecchio is home to several important structures, including a replica of Michelangelo’s David and Bandinelli’s Hercules and Cacus.
  2. Loggia dei Lanzi: An open-air sculpture gallery featuring works like Perseus with the Head of Medusa.
  3. Salone dei Cinquecento: The largest room in Florence, decorated with striking sculptures and Vasari’s enigmatic frescos.
  4. Private Apartments: Including the private apartments of Cosimo I and Eleanor of Toledo.
  5. Hall of Maps: Housing a large variety of age-old maps.
  6. Secret Passages: Visitors can access hidden passageways and rooms via guided thematic tours.

Ticket Information

  • Ticket Price: €17 per person.
  • Opening Hours:
    • October to March: Thursday, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.; other days, 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.
    • April to September: Thursday, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.; other days, 9 a.m. – 11 p.m.
  • Skip-the-line Tickets: Available for an additional fee to avoid long lines during peak times.

Tips for Visiting

  1. Best Time to Visit: Spring (March to May) is ideal for avoiding crowds and enjoying pleasant weather.
  2. Guided Tours: Recommended for a deeper understanding of the palace’s history and art. Guided tours can include themed tours like the Inferno tour.
  3. Audio Guide: Available with ticket purchase for a self-guided tour experience.
  4. Explore Secret Passages: Join a guided tour to discover hidden passageways and secret rooms within the palace.
  5. Panoramic View: Climb to the top of the Arnolfo Tower for a breathtaking view of Florence.
  6. Combine with Other Attractions: Visit the Uffizi Gallery, located nearby, for a comprehensive experience of Florence’s art and history.

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