Jewel of history and architecture, the Bargello Palace (Palazzo del Bargello) was built in 1255 and it is now one of the most important museums in Florence and houses must-see works by Donatello, Luca della Robbia, Verrocchio, Michelangelo and Cellini.
Its collection includes bronzes, enamels, ceramics, tapestries, fabrics and furnishings, and many of them belonged to the Medici family or other private collectors.
A precious example of medieval architecture and one of the oldest buildings in Florence, Bargello building was the site of some of the most important institutions of Florence in the past.
Here took place a number of historical events, such as meetings of the Council of One Hundred which Dante took part, or the executions for the Pazzi Conspiracy (Congiura dei Pazzi), when it was used as a prison.
Visitors will be impressed by the medieval atmosphere that reigns in the halls, and in particular in the inner courtyard.
The Bargello is a museum since the middle of the eighteenth century and it has been an important example in the history of European art collectors, for the precocity and preciousness of its collection.
It currently holds in its impressive rooms some of the most important works of the Italian Renaissance.
On the first floor there are the sculptures of the fourteenth century including the David di Donatello, masterpieces by Ghiberti, Brunelleschi, Verrocchio and Luca della Robbia.
The ground floor houses a number of the sixteenth century Tuscan works: Michelangelo, Sansovino, Ammannati, Cellini, Giambologna.
The first and second floor house as well collections of inestimable value which include so-called “minor arts” works in ivory, ceramics, enamels, gold, bronze, glass, and the rich Medici medals. Bargello Museum also featuresan imposing bell, famous for playing only at the turn of each century.
Museum Address
Museo Nazionale del Bargello - Via del Proconsolo 4 - 50122 Firenze
Opening Hours
8.15 am to 5 pm
The ticket office closes at 4.20 pm
Closed on 2nd and 4th Monday of each month, 1 January, 1 May and 25 December
Tickets
Full price: € 4.00
Reduced: € 2,00
Free admission: children under 6 years old, disabled people and their helpers, authorized tour guides and leaders, teachers accompanying school groups
The cost of the ticket may vary during special events or thematic exhibitions.
Guided Tours
Ask here for a private tour of Bargello museum