Known as the most famous square in Florence, the Piazza della Signoria is well worth the visit. Being the political and historical heart of the region.
The History of Piazza della Signoria
Piazza della Signoria has been the cetre for Florence’s politics since the 14th century, continually hosting ceremonial events, festivals, and political anoucements. But even prior to this, the region was bustling. In the 1980s, excavations took lpace in the square, leading to the historians to discover artefacts from the Roman era, the Etruscan period and even the Bronze Age.
Palazzo Vecchio
By far the most popular attraction within the Palazzo della Signoria or Palazzo Vecchio, Florence’s town hall (still the seat of the local government, it is a working building housing many offices that Florentines use on a daily basis, as well as the mayor’s office). Built on the site of a first-century Roman theatre (the ruins of which can now be visited), the first phase of the Palazzo was constructed from 1298 to 1302 by Arnolfo di Cambio, although it was enlarged several times thereafter. Its distinctive tower was added in 1310. The internal courtyard, updated by Michelozzo and decorated by Vasari (and known as the Cortile di Michelozzo), is open to the public free of charge; the Palazzo Museum itself has an admission charge.
The Neptune Fountain
The Neptune Fountain depicts the glorious god Neptune standing tall on a shell-chariot, with his magnificent triton and four serving seahorses. Said to be modelled as an ode to Rome’s Trevi Fountain, the structure is just as memorable. Featuring stunning detail in the fountain sculptures and hidden meanings with the decorative shapes and styles. Whether water flows from its faucets or not, this fountain is worth the visit no matter what time of year. Being the a perfectly romantic place to visit for your next insta shot!
The Uffizi Gallery
Occupying the first and second floors of Giorgio Vasari’s historic building, this gallery is home to an extraordinary collection of ancient sculptures and paintings. Ranging from the Middle Ages to the Modern period of time, the artworks alter in style with the everchanging art periods throughout history. Collections worth seeing are the historic middle age paintings, the pieces from the famous Renaissance period, as well as a number of significant sculptures of religious events.
The Loggia dei Lanzi
A delightful open-air sculpture gallery which contains some of the region’s best antique and refined Renaissance art. The building is located on the corner of the Piazza della Signoria, featuring stunning arches and impressive lion sculptures, which lead your way into this home of beauty.