Pitti Palace

The Pitti Palace is one of Florence’s largest architectural monuments, dating back to 1457.

It was once a grand palace owned by the grand ducal family, however, these days it is divided into four museums. Stroll the rooms and gardens of this stunning attraction and discover the history of the building and see the masterpieces hidden inside.

The History of Pitti Palace

The building was constructed in the late 15th century, owned by the Pitti family, hence the name. The original building only had two floors but was later remodelled to add further floors and rooms. In 1549, the property was sold to the Medicis, becoming the main residence of the grand ducal family. With famous designers and architects enlarging and adding stylish decorations to the building. Much of the remaining internal decoration was created in the 17th century by a number of artists, including Giovanni da San Giovanni, Sebastiano Ricci, Pietro da Cortona, il Volterrano, and Antonio Domenico Gabbiani.

The People who once lived within

Due to the grandeur of the building, the domestic life of the palace included many family members having their wing or apartment within. The Grand Duke was said to live in the left-wing of the palace, whilst the right-wing was owned by the heir to the throne. The lateral wings housed their wives’ apartments, and the side rooms were for the children. Other rooms are hidden about included massive libraries, sitting rooms, and dining sections for the whole family to enjoy.

These days, the palace has been divided differently, instead now home to four separate museums. Known as the Treasury of the Grand Dukes on the ground floor, the Palatine Gallery and the Imperial and Royal Apartments on the first floor, the Gallery of Modern Art and the Museum of Costume and Fashion on the second floor. As well, if travelling out of the building, you can see the Boboli gardens house the Palatine Gallery. No matter what corridor you travel down or the room you step into, we guarantee you’ll enjoy every minute of it!