Historic palaces in Florence

Historic Palaces and Castles

Florence’s architectural landscape is defined by its transition from medieval fortifications to grand Renaissance residences. This collection features iconic structures like the 15th-century Strozzi and Medici Riccardi palaces, alongside the sprawling Pitti Palace, once a royal seat. Beyond private estates, explore defensive sites like Fort Belvedere and the 13th-century Porta Romana. The list also includes significant religious landmarks, such as the Basilica of the Holy Cross—the burial site of Michelangelo—and the Pazzi Chapel, showcasing the evolution of Florentine design and the city's political and artistic legacy.

Historic Palaces and Castles — Map

sailko / CC BY 2.5

A

Pitti Palace

Historic Renaissance palace that served as a royal residence and now functions as a museum complex featuring extensive art collections and notable architecture.

Andrzej Otrębski / CC BY-SA 4.0

B

Bargello Museum

This 13th-century palace is the oldest public building in Florence. It opened as a national museum in 1865 after it was used as barracks, a…

sailko / CC BY 2.5

C

Strozzi Palace

The palace was built in the 15th century by the affluent Strozzi family who wished to have a more magnificent palace than the Medici family.

Davide Taviani / CC BY-SA 2.0

D

Piazza della Signoria

Historic cobblestone square featuring Renaissance architecture, open-air sculptures, and notable political and cultural landmarks.

G.dallorto / Attribution

E

Medici Riccardi Palace

Renaissance palace built in the 15th century, featuring notable architecture, important artworks, and historical significance related to the Medici family.

Sailko / CC BY-SA 3.0

F

Fort Belvedere

Built in the 16th century, the fortress was designed to demonstrate the power of the Medici family and to protect the center of the city.

Sygic Traveler / All rights reserved

G

Accademia Gallery

Art museum known for housing Michelangelo's David and a significant collection of Renaissance sculptures and paintings.

sailko / CC BY-SA 3.0

H

Vincigliata

Vincigliata Castle is a medieval castle which stands on a rocky hill to the east of Fiesole in the Italian region of Tuscany.

sailko / CC BY-SA 3.0

I

Villa Medici at Careggi

The Villa Medici at Careggi is a patrician villa in the hills near Florence, Tuscany, central Italy.

Aneta Ribarska / CC BY-SA 3.0

J

Basilica of St. Minias on the Mountain

Visit one of the oldest churches in Florence located at the highest point in the city.

Freepenguin / CC BY-SA 3.0

K

Roma Street

This street is notable for the historically significant buildings as well as the wide array of chic boutiques. It has a bustling vibe.

Lucarelli / CC BY-SA 3.0

L

Basilica of Santa Maria del Santo Spirito

Historic Renaissance church featuring notable artworks by Michelangelo Buonarroti and designed by prominent architects of the period. It serves as a Roman Catholic basilica with significant cultural and religious heritage.

Etienne (Li) / CC BY-SA 3.0

M

Basilica of Santa Maria Novella

Historic church featuring Gothic and Renaissance architecture with notable frescoes and artworks by master artists.

Gryffindor / CC BY-SA 3.0

N

Basilica of the Holy Cross

Historic Franciscan church known for its Renaissance architecture and as the burial site of notable figures such as Michelangelo and Machiavelli.

Joanbanjo / CC BY-SA 3.0

O

Rucellai Palace

Built in the 15th century, the palace served as a residence for the Rucellais, a wealthy merchant family at the time.

Sailko / CC BY 3.0

P

Davanzati Palace

Built in the 14th century by the wealthy Davizzi family, this palace is layered with history.

Mattana / CC BY-SA 3.0

Q

Pazzi Chapel

The construction of this striking chapel was funded by the wealthy Pazzi family and it is a wonderful showcase of Renaissance architecture.

Rufus46 / CC BY-SA 3.0

R

Roman Gate

This impressive gate was part of the 13th-century wall fortifications and it is the best preserved gate of the historical center of the…

Sailko / CC BY 3.0

S

Piazza del Duomo

Historic pedestrian square featuring the Florence Cathedral complex with Brunelleschi's Dome, Giotto's Bell Tower, and the Baptistery. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its Renaissance architecture and art.

Other Lists

Firenze's Absolute Essentials Florence's Premier Museums Florence Accommodations Florence Bridges and Viaducts Florence Theatres and Cinemas Florence's Historic Landmarks Florence's Sacred Masterpieces Florence Parks and Squares Florence Shopping & Markets Florence Sports & Fitness Florence's Culinary Delights