The Uffizi Gallery
Florence is an art-lover’s paradise, with the huge Uffizi Gallery definitely claiming the title of its most famous museum. Built between the years 1560 to 1580, it not only houses the most important collection of Renaissance art anywhere in the World, it’s also a superb example of Italian Mannerist architecture, within its ancient walls, you’ll discover awe-inspiring masterpieces by such greats as Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael, Titian and Rubens, not to mention the collections of artists’ self-portraits, miniatures, sculptures, drawings and prints, and never forget the frescoes on the ceilings in the main hallway that are absolutely divine. But, why should the building be called “Uffizi” which in Italian, means “offices”? Well, this goes back to the reason it was originally erected when, in 1560 Cosimo I commissioned Giorgio Vasari (does ”Corridoio Vasariano” mean anything for you?) to construct his offices, "uffizi" in the reinassance language, in order to manage the city from there and only some years later, in 1582, that the building was turned into an art gallery by Bernardo Buontalenti. In 1743, at the end, it became a property of the state, when Anna Maria Ludovica (last of the infamous Medicis), left it to the city.
My tips for visiting Uffizi
The Uffizi is open from Tuesday through to Sunday, and entrance is free for European citizens under 18 or over 65.
If you aren't between this age-span and depending on the time of year you visit (anyway it's best always in my opinion), it really is a good idea to buy your entrance tickets in advance, for the queues can be terrific! If you want to risk, please, you’ll need to arrive with good advance before opening time, when there are less crowds maybe like in this photo... You won’t be able to take photos of the works of art (although someone manages to do that, as you can see by yourself in this web page...), nor can you take any liquids in with you. However, no problem with that, the museum does boast a café... you’ll enjoy fantastic views of Florence from the patio near to it. Because it’s so large, and chock-a-block full of works of art, the Uffizi can be rather overwhelming. For this reason, it’s best to either purchase one of the audio guides available in the Museum, or employ the services of an official guide. If however, you’re really intent on doing your own thing and going at your own pace, i think it will be a good idea to take along pictures of any works you’re keen to see. That way, you can show them to a security guide and ask where they’re to be found.
And, what should you do when you leave?? Well, why not pop along to the Accademia Gallery, and take a look at Michelangelo’s Statue of David? It’s very close to the Uffizi Gallery and now there’s a good chance to book an official guided tour for both museums together at a special price!
Useful InfosWardrobeIt’s close to the entrance and all visitors have to leave in the wide stuff, suche as umbrellas, luggage and bagpacks. This service is free. Closures for particular reasons Unfortunately, sometimes it may happen that some rooms or sections of the museum could be closed due to tecnical reasons. It is impossible to foresee such events, but you could find notices about them on a daily basis at the ticket office or along the queue at the entrance (this is just in case you don’t have bought you ticket in advance as I suggested before!). Audioguides They are available in italian, english, french, german and japanese. Books and Catalogues There are three shops inside the museum, two of them are close to the entrance and the other to the exit. One of the two near the entrance is specialized in hystory of Renaissance art, while the others sell foreign language guides and many Uffizi’s masterpieces-inspired souvenirs. Post Office Nearby the exit you can find a post office that can provide several extra services such as value change, the delivery of the souvenirs you just bought in the museum’s shop and the selling of collection stamps. Uffizi's WorldAnd here’s a directory of the many opportunities you’ll have to visit the Florence’s most famous museum:
Tickets Say no to queues! To book your tickets in advance has never been so easy and fast!
Experience a guided tour through Renaissance masterpieces.
Guided tours for maximum 20 persons are available, for your own private pleasure (more or less).
The Corridoio Vasariano is a must-to-do visit in Florence and its visit starts right inside the Uffizi Gallery. What a better occasion than this to enjoy one of the most beautiful walks through art in the world?
Do you think you’re able to decide between Botticelli’s Venere and Michelangelo’s David? Well, nevermind. Don’t miss the opportunity to see both of them, by booking the combined visit with a discount on the entrance fees.
uffizi gallery uffizi gallery uffizi gallery uffizi gallery From Uffizi Gallery to Florence Museums
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