With its crenellated roof, the Palazzo Vecchio sometimes resembles a fortress rather than a city hall. Though first constructed in the early 1300s on top of the old Roman theater, the building was continuously rebuilt and expanded upon, marking it with the passage of time and fashion in Florentine history. Learn about this interesting past and climb the tower, whose elevated position makes it as good for getting pictures and views of the city as it has been for spotting enemies on the horizon.
Start at the earliest life of the building in the basement, where the archaeological dig that exposed the ruins of the former Roman theater is now open to visitors. See the stonework that once held hundreds of theatergoers as part of some of Ancient Rome’s most important rituals. Go up into the medieval structure, where lavish decoration hides behind the rather staid, defensive redbrick exterior.
Stand in awe at the magnificent scope of the Salone dei Cinquecento, which was constructed during Florence’s flirtation with republicanism in the 15th century. Walk slowly down the span of the huge murals decorating the walls, initiated by Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo Buonarroti.
See the flower of Renaissance artistic production in the adjacent apartments, which the Medici family used to their full potential during the restoration of princely authority in the subsequent centuries. Head up the Torre di Arnolfo to see how the power inside the building was translated to the city outside through the many architectural wonders of Florence.
The Palazzo Vecchio is in the middle of Florence, just a few steps from the bridge with the same name. Walk here from the train station in 15 minutes or from Piazza del Duomo in 7 minutes. Parking in the area is very restricted, especially during peak summer tourist season.
The building is open to visitors daily, with variable hours. Generally most parts are open from the morning to late at night, though they close in the early afternoon on Thursdays. Check for seasonal variation. Varied ticketing options are available.
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