Palazzo Pitti & Giardino di Boboli, A Renaissance treasure trove of art and grandeur
Piazza del Pitti 1
4.4
Introduction
The Palazzo Pitti is a grand Renaissance palace in Florence, located on the south bank of the Arno River just a stone's throw from the old bridge. Originally built in 1458 as the residence of Florentine banker Luca Pitti, it has been home to the main residence of the Grand Dukes of Tuscany since the Medici family purchased it in 1539.
The Pitti Palace has housed a vast collection of jewelry, paintings, and precious treasures since its purchase by the Medici family and has become one of Italy's most famous museums. In the late 18th century, the palace became the power center of Napoleon Bonaparte, as well as the temporary residence of the newly unified Italian royal family. In 1919, Vittorio Emanuele III donated the palace and all its collections to the Italian people. Today, the Pitti Palace is one of Florence's largest art galleries, open to the public.
The Palace is situated opposite the Arno River from the Boboli Gardens. Initially funded by another Florentine banker, the Palazzo Pitti was designed by famous architect Brunelleschi to demonstrate its strength equal to that of the Medici family, but halfway through the project, it was abandoned due to lack of funds. Soon after, the palace was purchased by the Medici family and became the Grand Dukes of Tuscany's residence, showcasing many Renaissance art pieces. They also constructed the Boboli Gardens in the rear of the palace, which had a distinctive Renaissance style and was used to entertain guests. Today, these palaces and private gardens have become public spaces open to tourists. Opening hours November, December, January, and February, Tuesday to Sunday 8:15-16:30
March, Tuesday to Sunday 8:15-17:30
April, May, September, and October, Tuesday to Sunday 8:15-18:30
June, July, and August, Tuesday to Sunday 8:15-19:30 (Closed on Mondays, and on New Year's Day, May 1st, and Christmas Day).
The gallery has some more modern paintings
