Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
works by Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Botticelli. The palace itself is also a work
of art, built between 1560 and 1580 by the grand duke Cosimo de Medici. The Medici
Family were a powerful and influential Florence family famous for being generous patrons
to the arts. Here in the Uffizi, you'll find the world's largest collection of Renaissance art
that was mainly collected by members of the Medici family. Aside from the Tuscan artists
previously mentioned, you'll also be able to see work by masters like Rubens, van Dyk,
and Rembrant. One of the more famous paintings housed here is the “Birth of Venus” by
Botticelli.
Travel Tip:
Because it's such a popular museum, it's not un-
common to wait for several hours to get in. It's best to call and
make a reservation so you can skip the lines and get right in.
Galleria dell' Accademia:
After the Uffizi, the Galleria dell' Accademia (Academy Gallery) is next in popularity. The
main attraction here is the famous David statue erected by Michelangelo. The Academy
Gallery got its name from being one of Europe's first art academies when it was founded in
1563. It was founded by a member of the Medici family and also housed a museum at that
time to help inspire art students with examples of historic works of art. The statue of David
is definitely a work of art to behold. It was created by Michelangelo in 1501 through 1504
and was made from a single block of marble. It's brought instant fame to the young artist
who was twenty-nine when he finished it. There is also an unfinished work by Michelan-
gelo, a group of four marble slave statues that were supposed to be part of a monument
tomb for Pope Julius II. Whether you decide to some to the Academy Gallery just to see
David, or want to browse around the other monumental works of art, it's definitely worth a
stop here while in Florence.
Pitti Palace and Boboli Garden:
Located across the river from the beautifully historic center of Florence is the Palazzo Pitt
(Pitti Palace) and Boboli Garden, located behind the palace. The Pitti Palace was yet anoth-
er grand home commissioned by the wealthy Medici family and boasts marvelous architec-
ture and design inside and out. Today it's home to several museums including the Museo
del Porcellane (Porcelain Museum), and the Museo degli Argenti (The Silver Museum). If
you're looking to take a break from all of the museum exploring, take a break and stroll
through the lovely Boboli Garden. Here you'll find tree-lined walkways, statues, and relax-
ing fountains that can be a welcome break away from the hectic Florence sightseeing. Once
inside the garden, you'll see the Bacchus Fountain. Grotto Grande, and an Amphitheater.
