Palazzo Vecchio

The Tower of Palazzo Vecchio, which is 95 meters in height, is one of Florence's most recognizable emblems and focal points, and it literally 'towers' above the rest of the city.

Additionally, it is one of the earliest elements of the building, having been constructed between the years 1299 and the early 14th century as the seat of the city's government, presumably according to a design by Arnolfo di Cambio.

THINGS TO DO AT PALAZZO VECCHIO:

• Travel in time here:

It will take place at Palazzo Vecchio, with a journey through time to three different eras. Roman ruins, a medieval stronghold, and extraordinary Renaissance chambers and artworks may all be found within Palazzo Vecchio. A miniature universe in which artistic expression and historical research have been inextricably linked for millennia.

• Admire rustic beauty:

Within the chambers, you will also find secret passageways, such as the magnificent private studiolo (studio) that belonged to Francesco I, Cosimo's Tesoretto, and the ceiling trusses that support the ceiling of Salone dei Cinquecento, which will allow you to learn about the engineering prowess of Renaissance architects and builders.

• Explore the area:

The stuccoes and frescoes that adorn the Cortile di Michelozzo are as follows:

Continue on the first floor in the Salone dei Cinquecento, which features a magnificent cycle of paintings that celebrates the apotheosis of Cosimo de' Medici and the city of Florence, as well as a rich array of statues that accompany Michelangelo's celebrated Victory. The paintings celebrate the apotheosis of both Cosimo de' Medici and the city of Florence.

On the museum's second floor is where you'll find the private chambers that belonged to the Medici court.

Each of these rooms is magnificently painted and furnished, and among them is the famous Chapel of Eleonora, which is decorated with paintings by Agnolo Bronzino. All of these rooms are located on the first floor.

Important relics of the Palazzo's earliest decorations have been maintained over the ages in the Audience Room and the Room of the Lilies. The original version of Donatello's Judith may also be found in this room, known as the Room of the Lilies.

In the 'Room of the Maps,' visitors are presented with an incredible view of all of the regions that were known in the sixteenth century through the medium of a particularly large globe as well as more than fifty painted panels.

• If you have the courage, climb all 416 steps to the very top of the tower, where you will be rewarded with breathtaking panaroma of Florence:

Along the way, you will pass through guardian tunnels, which also provide spectacular views of the city and the entire valley. The tower may be visited up to the second crenelated battlement.