The Riccardi Medici Palace is one of the prime attractions of Florence and is a classic example of Renaissance architecture. It was the residence of the Royal Medici family of Florence and was transformed into a museum later on. The museum tells you a lot about the glorious history of Florence that later on became the workplace for the legendary artists such as Michelangelo, Paolo Uccello, Boticelli, etc.
The Riccardi Medici Palace is a palace-turned-museum in the city of Florence, Italy. It has been built in the traditional Florentine palace plan around a central court room. You can learn more about the life, culture and traditions of the Royal Medici Family and Lorenzo the Medici’s great passion for art. The palace was designed by the famous Florentine architect Michelozzo for the mighty Medicis. The building of the palace is a classic example of Italian Mannerist architecture. It is even the first Renaissance structure erected in Florence.
The palace also served as the workstation of the legendary Italian artist Michelangelo who came to stay here under the sponsorship of Lorenzo. Lorenzo was very passionate about art and supported young artists which is also revealed by the excellent collection of artworks in the palace. Each corner of the palace has a story of its own and attracts a large number of tourists who come to explore Florence every year. This is one of the most treasured Heritage Sites of Florence glorifying its history and architecture.
• Take a tour around the palace which was the home to Cosimo the Elder’s grandson, Lorenzo the Magnificent and learn more about the history of the Medici family.
• Explore and learn more about the art works of Michelangelo who came to live here as a teenager under the sponsorship of Lorenzo the Medici.
• Observe the periodic artworks painted on the walls of the private chapel of the Medici family to get an insight into the Renaissance architecture of those times.
• Take a walk around the Courtyard of Michelozzo to know more about how the family’s large banquets, shows, weddings etc. were organized.
• Admire the unique rusticated exterior of the building to get an insight into the typical Renaissance architecture.
• Indulge into the magnificence of some of the noteworthy artworks exhibited in the palace created by some legendary artists such as Michelangelo, Boticelli, etc.
By Bus- Line 131, 23A, 23L, 322A, 6AL, 9, CF operate around the area of the palace. The closest bus stops are- Vecchietti (6A, 6B, 110), Pucci Duomo (C1,14, 23, 23N), Santa Maria Maggiore, Proconsolo, Battisti San Marco, etc. which are less than a walk of 5 mins to the palace.
By Train- Line R trains take you to the Medici Palace. The closest train stations are- Firenze Porta Al Prato and Le Cure which are less than a walk of 10 mins to the palace.
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The best time to visit the Riccardi Medici Palace is either in the early hours of the day or late in the afternoon when the rush is less.
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Location- Via Camillo Cavour, 3, 50129, Florence, Italy
Timings- 9:00 am to 7:00 pm except on Wednesday
Last admission time- an hour prior to the closing time
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The decorations and paintings on the walls and ceilings of this hall by the Spanish court painter Luca Giordano are surely going to put you in awe. The paintings depict ‘Apotheosis of the Medici’ and are a must watch during your visit to the palace.
This private chapel for the Medici family is a highlight of the Riccardi Medici Palace and visitors flock around it every minute to admire its beauty. You can get the essence of the typical Renaissance style of decor and furnishings in this charming, compact chapel.
This classically designed courtyard by the Florentine architect Michelozzo tells you the story of how mass gatherings, banquets, weddings and celebrations used to take place in the palace.
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This 18th century garden is an inseparable part of the private life of the Medicis. Beautifully decorated with special plants, fountains and statues, this classic Italian garden is a perfect place for you to sit and relax in the open air during your visit to the palace.
This museum houses some of the antique artworks collected by the Riccardi family. Opened for the common public in the year 2005, this museum takes you back to the significant style of sculpting during the middle ages.
The basement of the palace, which used to serve as stables for the Mediccis was transformed into cellars by the Riccardi family. The beautifully blended ancient and contemporary architecture will take you on a ride to Rome’s unrevealed history and heritage.
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