Giotto, Botticelli, Michelangelo, Leonardo, and Raphael—these are just a few of the great masters we will encounter at the Uffizi Gallery, the world’s most important museum for Renaissance painting.
Our visit will be an immersive journey through the evolution of painting from the 13th to the 16th century. We will uncover hidden symbols, artistic techniques, and the secrets behind each masterpiece.
The Uffizi collection owes its existence to the extraordinary patronage of the Medici family, who, over centuries, amassed an artistic treasure of unparalleled value. To house their growing administration and collection, Giorgio Vasari designed the Uffizi Palace in 1540.
With its chronological layout, the museum provides a clear and educational path through the transformation of art, from the Middle Ages to the Baroque period.
THE BIRTH OF A LEGENDARY MUSEUM
The Uffizi was originally built as the administrative center for Florence’s thirteen magistrates, known as “uffizi” (offices). Duke Cosimo I de’ Medici commissioned the palace to be located near his residence in Palazzo Vecchio, allowing him direct supervision over the city’s governance.
The architecture of the Uffizi is one of the most remarkable examples of Florentine civil architecture from the late 16th century, designed by Giorgio Vasari and later completed by Bernardo Buontalenti.
On the second floor, where our visit begins, we’ll admire the beautifully preserved grotesque ceiling decorations, dating back to the 1580s.
MASTERPIECES YOU CAN’T MISS
Among the Uffizi’s many treasures, one stands out: Michelangelo’s Doni Tondo, the only panel painting ever created by the artist.
Commissioned in 1506 by the wealthy Doni family, this masterpiece showcases Michelangelo’s innovative style, foreshadowing his groundbreaking work in the Sistine Chapel.
At the same time, the Donis also commissioned Raphael to paint their portraits, creating a fascinating artistic dialogue between two of the greatest painters of the Renaissance.
UFFIZI + VASARI CORRIDOR OPTION
Want an even more exclusive experience? In addition to the classic Uffizi tour, you can add access to the Vasari Corridor, the famous secret passage built for the Medici family.
This elevated walkway, stretching over one kilometer, was designed in 1565 by Giorgio Vasari in just six months, connecting Palazzo Vecchio to Palazzo Pitti via the Uffizi and Ponte Vecchio.
After eight years of restoration, the Vasari Corridor is finally open to the public, offering unparalleled views of Florence and exclusive access to hidden historical gems.
A one-of-a-kind experience, allowing you to see Florence through the eyes of the Medici!