WALKING TOUR:
The Medici Dynasty
This itinerary explores the fascinating history of the Medici family, Florence’s ruling dynasty for over three hundred years. At once successful bankers, cunning politicians as well as enthusiastic patrons of the arts and sciences, the story of the Medici family is one with that of Florence.
From the rise to power of Cosimo the Elder, to the patronage of Lorenzo the Magnificent; from the dictatorship of Cosimo I to the eventual decline and extinction of the family in the 18th century, we cover the peoples and places, facts and anecdotes that defined this powerful clan.
The highlights of this itinerary in the half-day version include:
Palazzo Medici-Riccardi, first palatial residence of the Medicis, with the exquisite Chapel of the Magi, jewel of Renaissance painting
San Lorenzo, Brunelleschi’s Renaissance architectural masterpiece.
The Medici Chapels, a powerful and ostentatious display of Medici power through their sumptuous family tombs
The full-day version of this itinerary can also include:
Palazzo Vecchio, residence of Grand Duke Cosimo I and his wife Eleanor of Toledo
Palazzo Pitti, the final Medici residence, built and expanded over two centuries for the later Medici rulers