Palazzo Vecchio

Reminiscent of a fortress, this palace serves as a town hall and dominates the square with its tall bell tower. It's one of the most famous landmarks in Florence.

Dating back to the 14th century, the palace was designed by Arnolfo di Cambio, the architect of the Duomo and Santa Croce church. The tower on top of the palace takes its name after him. Originally called the Palace of the People, the town hall acquired several other names in the past. It was known as the Duke's Palace when Cosimo I de Medici came to power and after he moved to the Palazzo Pitti, the palace obtained its current name.

Note the Gothic windows with painted coats of arms above them. The main attraction of the museum is Salone dei Cinquecento, a large hall which was used for assemblies. Cosimo I had Giorgio Vasari decorate the hall with murals depicting the achievements of the duke. The town hall is set on top of the Roman theater and its ruins can be visited in the underground level.

Buy your tickets online to avoid lines at the ticket office. Free cloakroom is available on the ground floor, please leave your baggage there.