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BOOK ACTIVITY

Palazzo Vecchio, Florence

Piazza della Signoria, Firenze, Toscana

Description

The Palazzo Vecchio (meaning Old Palace) was built in the early 14th century to house the Signoria of Florence, the ruling body of the Republic of Florence - hence it was called the Palazzo della Signoria and the name was switched when the Medici duke's residence moved across the Arno River to the Palazzo Pitti. The building is made of solid rusticated stonework with two rows of Gothic windows, a crenelated battlement, and a tower named after the building's architect Arnolfo di Cambio (who also designed the Duomo and the Santa Croce church). There are many noteworthy rooms and chambers but the most imposing one are the Salone dei Cinquecento ('Hall of the Five Hundred' measuring 52x23m) with its panelled ceilings and wall frescoes, and the Studiolo of Francesco I.

Access & Transport

The palace is on the Piazza della Signoria, 200m northeast of Ponte Vecchio and 400m south of Piazza del Duomo, in the center of the historical center of Florence. Bus C2 stops just north of the square on Via della Condotta Access for visitors with motor disabilities is from the side entrance on Via dei Gondi.

Instructions & Recommendations

Note that the Archaeological site is temporarily closed and the Arnolfo Tower closes earlier than the Museum.

Meta review

The Palace is highly rated by online reviewers and travel guides alike. The Hall of the Five Hundred is described as 'spectacular' and the various artwork (decorated ceilings, frescoes/paintings, and sculptures) give each room a distinct identity - only missing some furnishing. A real dip into the past that many visitors found to be enhanced by an audio-guide or a tour guide.

Environmental & Social

We deem this activity neutral from an environmental standpoint. Helps preserve the city's historical, architectural and artistic heritages.

Conclusion

A visual treat blending architecture and artwork in the heart of Florence's past seat of power. Recommended for anyone and worth taking a tour guide to better understand the historical and functional aspects.

Key positive

Interesting historical background

Impressive artwork throughout the rooms

Key negative

None

Suitability

The 2 main floors of the museum are accessible, the archaeological itinerary only partially, and the mezzanine floor and the tower are not. Min. age for the tower is 6yr old

About this Rating

TYPE

Desktop

RESEARCHED IN

June 2024

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit
Last admission 1h before closing. The Arnolfo Tower closes at 17h

av. transport time:0h

est. visit time:1h 30m

Regulated hours

Monday09:00 - 19:00

Tuesday09:00 - 19:00

Wednesday09:00 - 19:00

Thursday09:00 - 14:00

Friday09:00 - 19:00

Saturday09:00 - 19:00

Sunday09:00 - 19:00

Pricing
Price for Museum
Age band
Age band
Regular price / pers.
Senior
65 - 99
€13.5
Adult
26 - 64
€13.5
Teen & Young
18 - 25
€11
Child
3 - 17
€0
Infant
0 - 2
€0
Includes 1€ for online bookings.

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