The Bargello Museum is one of the oldest and most important museums in Florence, Italy. Located in the historic center of the city, the museum houses some of the most important works of art in the world. It is known for its collection of Renaissance and Baroque sculptures, as well as its vast array of ancient and modern art. The museum was founded in 1254 and has been open to the public since 1865.
History of the Museum
The Bargello Museum was founded in 1254 by the ruling family of Florence, the Medici. The museum was originally used as a prison and was known as the “Palazzo del Podestà”. In 1574, it was converted into a museum by Cosimo I de’ Medici, the first Grand Duke of Tuscany. The museum was officially opened to the public in 1865 and was initially dedicated to Renaissance and Baroque sculptures.
Collections
The museum’s collections include a wide variety of works from the Renaissance and Baroque periods. The most famous works are the sculptures by Donatello, Michelangelo, and Cellini. The museum also has a large collection of ancient and modern art, including paintings by Botticelli, Caravaggio, and Titian. Additionally, the museum houses a large number of Greek and Roman antiquities, as well as a collection of furniture and decorative arts.
Notable Works
Donatello
- The Bronze David
- The Marzocco
- The Magdalene
Michelangelo
- The Brutus
- The Moses
- The Slaves
Cellini
- The Perseus with the Head of Medusa
- The Salt Cellar
- The Bust of Cosimo I de’ Medici
Events
The Bargello Museum hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including lectures, concerts, and exhibitions. Additionally, the museum often offers guided tours of its collections.
Visiting the Museum
The Bargello Museum is open daily from 8:15am to 7:00pm, except on the first and third Sunday of the month. Admission to the museum is free for children under 18, and tickets can be purchased online or at the museum’s ticket office.