Must-See Museums in Florence, Italy
Florence isn’t tagged as the birthplace of the Renaissance for nothing. Its rich history is overwhelming in all the good ways, and more and more people are drawn to its inviting beauty and heritage every year.
Known for its historic museums and art galleries, Florence is considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Not only is it famous for its impressive history, as it is also home to Italian fashion and a significant economic center for the country.
Florence has so much to offer that it is almost impossible to explore everything in one visit. Choosing which ones to see first can even be an actual dilemma when you are in the city!
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MUST-SEE MUSEUMS IN FLORENCE
The good thing about discovering the city is that you do not have to be a hardcore art enthusiast, as it has tons of other galleries that would make you appreciate every bit of history from art, sculpture, mathematics, physics, fashion, and everything else.
While if you have more than enough time on your hand, you might want to do a few day trips from Florence. Below is a list of the museums in Florence that you must not miss to completely appreciate its exquisite charm.
Galleria degli Uffizi
Why is it one of the must-see museums in Florence?
Whether you appreciate art or not, you will definitely enjoy The Uffizi Gallery. It is one of the most famous art museums in Florence, housing the world-famous works of Michelangelo, Raphael, Giotto, Titian, and Leonardo da Vinci, among others.
It exhibits famous paintings and sculptures by world-renowned artists, as well as altarpieces and preserved documents and manuscripts. Uffizi is considered the world’s most outstanding gallery of the Renaissance art and it is so huge you would probably need half of your day to explore the entirety of the museum.
Museo Nazionale del Bargello
Why is it one of the must-see museums in Florence?
Bargello is known for its extensive collection of sculptures and visitors enjoy exploring the gallery as it is not as crowded as the Uffizi most of the times. It is home to dozens of statues by Donatello, Verrocchio, and Michelangelo. If you are not a sculpture fanatic, you can still definitely appreciate Bargello for its gallery of applied arts.
The museum is one of the most interesting and unique spots in Florence as it was once a prison back in the 13th century. It was one of the first museums in the whole of Italy when it opened its sculpture gallery in the 1800s.
Why is it one of the must-see museums in Florence?
Bargello is known for its extensive collection of sculptures and visitors enjoy exploring the gallery as it is not as crowded as the Uffizi most of the times. It is home to dozens of statues by Donatello, Verrocchio, and Michelangelo. If you are not a sculpture fanatic, you can still definitely appreciate Bargello for its gallery of applied arts.
The museum is one of the most interesting and unique spots in Florence as it was once a prison back in the 13th century. It was one of the first museums in the whole of Italy when it opened its sculpture gallery in the 1800s.
Galleria dell’Accademia
Why is it one of the must-see museums in Florence?
The Galleria dell’Accademia is one of the most visited museums in the world, as it is known for the acclaimed Michelangelo sculpture, David. It also houses the Four Prisoners, Michelangelo’s incomplete work, which was designed for Pope Julius II’s tomb. Visitors also appreciate its collection of other Renaissance art pieces.
You might want to skip the line at Gelleria dell’Accademia to avoid the massive crowd and have the best experience during your visit.
Palazzo Pitti
Why is it one of the must-see museums in Florence?
The famous palace where the Medici family once lived, Palazzo Pitti has an extensive collection of art pieces from the 16th and 17th centuries, as well as a silver museum, and galleries of contemporary art. The building was designed by Brunelleschi and is considered as one of the largest architectural pillars in the whole of Florence.
In addition to the many museums inside the palace, visitors also take time to see the Boboli Gardens behind the property, which also houses various art collections.
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Palazzo Strozzi
Why is it one of the must-see museums in Florence?
The thing that makes Palazzo Strozzi inviting to tourists and locals alike is that it is a host to passing or travelling art exhibits. It was built with the idea of making Florence a centre of all kinds of art, thus, it has become a space host to temporary exhibitions in the city.
Some of the most memorable exhibits in the palace include The Peggy Guggenheim in 1946 and 2016, as well as Botticelli and Filippino Lippi in 2004. Truly, there is always something new to see at the Palazzo Strozzi.
Museo Galileo
Why is it one of the must-see museums in Florence?
If you are not a huge art enthusiast, the Museo Galileo might interest you. With all its hands-on exhibitions, the museum is quite popular among kids and adults alike who love history and science. Typically, it is considered a break from all the Renaissance museum-hopping you would do in Florence. It sure is interesting, unique, and definitely a must-see in the city.
Museo Opera del Duomo
Why is it one of the must-see museums in Florence?
If you are a fan of architecture and history, then you must visit the Museo Opera del Duomo. The museum was built to exhibit the history of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. It displays statues and carvings depicting the planning, building, and reconstruction of the Cathedral.
It also boasts of its huge collection of the history and influence of the Catholic Church in Italy. This museum is definitely a must-not-miss even if you only have one day in Florence.
Museo di San Marco
Why is it one of the must-see museums in Florence?
Museo di San Marco displays the work of Father Angelico, who was a monk and a painter in the early Renaissance period. His famous paintings in the museum include the Crucifixion, the Deposition, which was made for Palla Strozzi, and the Tabernacle of the Linaioli, which was finished with a frame designed by Lorenzo Ghiberti. Art and history fanatics will surely love a visit to the museum.
Gucci Museum
Why is it one of the must-see museums in Florence?
Another unique exhibit to see in Florence is the Gucci Museum, which, by its very name, is a gallery displaying the history of Gucci fashion. Here you can appreciate Gucci’s contribution to world fashion, not only through its enduring legacy but more so through the craftsmanship of their products.
Outside the museum is the Gucci restaurant, which is another tourist favorite. For anyone who appreciates fashion and art, do not miss this museum.
It is a known fact that there are tons of historical museums in Florence. It might be even safe to say that the city is a colossal museum in itself with its picturesque beauty and overflowing history. Visiting these world-class museums will take you to a whole new level of art, history, and even fashion appreciation.
So when you tour the city of Florence, never miss out on them! Whatever your interests are, Florence surely has something for you.
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