Why go
Start here to read Florence as a political city as well as an art city. Palazzo Vecchio dominates the L-shaped square, while the adjacent Loggia dei Lanzi offers a lighter architectural counterpoint and an open-air sculpture display. A copy of Michelangelo's David stands outside the palace, recalling the original's civic placement. The square also leads directly toward the Uffizi and the Arno.
What to look for
- Palazzo Vecchio's crenellated tower overlooking the square.
- The open arches and sculpture of the Loggia dei Lanzi.
- A copy of Michelangelo's David at the original civic site.
Useful to know
- Use the square as a walking link between the Duomo area, the Uffizi and the Arno.
- View the Loggia from the square before continuing toward the Uffizi.