Galleria degli Uffizi

Galleria degli Uffizi is one of the world’s most famous art museums. 

It holds a mythical place in many people’s minds, a must for art-lovers to visit at least once during one’s lifetime (which can explain why it’s Italy’s most visited museum). 

It comes with an interesting history: Anna Maria Luisa de Medici was the last of her family. When the family line was about to end, she negotiated an agreement with the city of Florence, and had the family’s art collections donated, to be put on permanent display in the Uffizi. 

The gallery has been open to visitors (though by request only) since the 16th century. 

In 1765, it was officially opened to the public and in 1865, it was turned into a museum. 

The building complex had a close connection to the Medici Family, designed by Giorgio Vasari (in 1560) for Cosimo I de Medici. 

In short, the buildings held his offices, which is also what “Uffizi” means in Italian. 

Already in the 16th century, the top floor was reserved for a gallery, used by the family and their guests (and centred around the family’s collection of Roman sculptures). 

Other artistic treasures belonging to the family were on display on the piano nobile – visiting this space was a highly sought-after attraction of the Grand Tour of young European noblemen.

The cortile is so long, narrow, and open that many historians consider it the first regularised streetscape of Europe. 

Vasari, who was not only an architect but also a painter, emphasised its perspective by adorning it with the matching facades’ cornices, creating a sense of elongated symmetry.

Most people who visit the museum are only dimly aware of the building’s history and affiliation with what was once one of the most powerful families in the world. 

Neither do they care about the building itself: Most visitors come to view some of the finest masterpieces in the history of art. 

The museum has so many invaluable artworks that one day would not be enough for a thorough visit. 

Among its key works are Caravaggio’s Bacchus, Medusa and Sacrifice of Isaac; Leonardo da Vinci’s The Annunciation and Adoration of Magi; Michelangelo’s The Holy Family, and Sandro Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus.

From the terrace, where you can take a well-deserved break while enjoying a cup of coffee or lighter meal, you will have unmatched views of the city, including seeing Duomo from the above.  

Galleria degli Uffizi

Florence, Italy