Florence’s most famous family needed a suitable resting place that exemplified their artistic prowess thus the Medici Chapels were created. First started in the 16th century, they were continually updated and added to over the next 300 years. Parts of the lavish decoration are still unfinished. From the rather modest crypts below to the eye-popping Chapel of the Princes, wander amid the final monuments of this family that did so much to influence the development of the city and of Europe.
Spend a few minutes in the Church of San Lorenzo, the family’s local church, appreciating its well-preserved Renaissance decoration. Continue on to the Old Sacristy, designed by Brunelleschi, creator of the Duomo, for Giovanni de’ Medici and his wife in the early 15th century.
Next, explore the incredible sculpture work of the Michelangelo-designed New Sacristy, meant to be the mirror image of Brunelleschi’s earlier work. Examine the elaborate stonework on the sarcophagi and the freestanding statues of allegorical figures as well as the Medici dukes, considered some of the sculptor’s finest work.
Save some time for the incredible luxury of the Chapel of the Princes, the jewel of the elaborate chapel complex. Started in 1604, it was not completed until the 20th century. Notice how the passage of time has caused subtle differences in the jeweled interior of the dome.
Finish with a stroll down to the crypts, where the minor members of the family were buried, a good reminder that even the greatest families have their black sheep.
The Medici Chapels are in the heart of Old Florence, a 5-minute stroll from the Duomo. Walk from Florence’s main train station in 7 minutes. As with most of the city, nearby parking is extremely limited, so explore on foot or use Florence’s relatively robust public transportation system.
The chapels are generally open daily from morning to early afternoon, but close on Sundays and Mondays. Check the schedule online before visiting. Access is ticketed, with skip-the-line tickets available online.
