Why go
The palace makes Florence's political changes tangible. Construction began in 1299 for the commune's magistrates, and its stone walls, battlements and offset tower still convey that defensive purpose. In 1540 Cosimo I moved his official seat here; the building later took its current name after the ducal residence moved to Palazzo Pitti. Inside, the Hall of the Five Hundred recalls the city's republican institutions.
What to look for
- Rusticated stone walls, Gothic windows and a crenellated crown.
- Torre d'Arnolfo, whose position is offset from the palace centre.
- The Hall of the Five Hundred, built in 1494 for the Grand Council.
Useful to know
- Pair the palace with Piazza della Signoria to see its original civic setting.
- Allow extra time if you want to concentrate on the Hall of the Five Hundred and the smaller historic rooms.