About this experience
Experience the history of Florence through the turbulent events that took place within the walls of the Bargello palace. Discover the symbolism behind the great works of Michelangelo, Donatello, Ammanati, and Bernini, be impressed by the ceramics and jewelry from the rich private collection of Carrand.
What to Expect
The Secrets of Bargello
I will tell you the history of one of the oldest public buildings in Florence, where the Bargello Museum is located. You will learn why in some centuries it served as the residence of the head of administration and city council, while in others it witnessed torture and executions. I will guide you through the iconic halls of the museum and show you the most important works of Italian Renaissance architects. You will see the remarkably beautiful and remarkably lifelike sculpture of a fisherman boy by the Neapolitan master Vincenzo Gemito, two "Davids" by Donatello, the exquisite and tender bust of Constance Buonarroti, created by the amorous and fiery Bernini, and the first competition works of Ghiberti and Brunelleschi.
Michelangelo and Carrand Collection
I will help you uncover the symbolism behind four works by Michelangelo exhibited in the museum - "Bacchus," "Tondo Pitti," "Brutus," and "David-Apollo." You will hear the story of the competition for the creation of the bronze "northern" doors for the Florentine Baptistery and be impressed by the realism of Benvenuto Cellini's sculptures. You will also get acquainted with the rich private collection of Carrand, which features ivory and wood items from the Byzantine and Roman periods, jewelry, decorative arts, bronze statuettes, antique everyday objects, and ceramics. Lastly, I will show you the military armor of the great Duke of Tuscany Cosimo I and the Della Robbia maiolica.
Organizational Details
- Entrance tickets to the museum are not included in the tour price - 8 euros per person. The price may vary by a few euros if there are temporary exhibitions at the museum.
- An audio system is used for groups of 5 or more people for an additional fee - 1 euro per person.
- The museum is closed every 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month and the 1st, 3rd, 5th Monday of the month.
