.jpg?w=1080&dpr=2)
Palazzo Pitti History
History of the Palazzo Pitti
The Palazzo Pitti History dates back to the 15th century when Luca Pitti, a wealthy Florentine banker, commissioned the construction of the palace in 1458. The building was designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, a renowned architect who is also responsible for designing the dome of the Florence Cathedral. However, Luca Pitti could not complete the construction of the palace due to financial problems, and it remained unfinished until the mid-16th century when the Medici family acquired it. The Medici transformed the palace into a lavish residence, adding new rooms, gardens, and works of art.
Also Checkout: Water Parks in Florence
The Medici family was one of the most powerful and influential families in Renaissance Italy, and they played a significant role in the Palazzo Pitti History. In 1550, Cosimo I de' Medici, the Duke of Florence, purchased the palace from the Pitti family and made it his primary residence. Under the Medici's patronage, the palace underwent significant renovations, and many famous artists, including Raphael, Titian, and Giorgio Vasari, were commissioned to decorate the interior with frescoes, paintings, and sculptures.
The Medici also created the famous Boboli Gardens behind the palace, which is a stunning example of Italian garden design. They also added a connecting corridor, known as the Vasari Corridor, that linked Palazzo Pitti with the Uffizi Gallery and the Palazzo Vecchio.
Also Read: Zoos in Florence
One of the most impressive features of Palazzo Pitti is the Cortile, a large courtyard located at the center of the palace. The Cortile was designed by Bartolomeo Ammannati in the mid-16th century and is a magnificent example of Renaissance architecture. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the palace underwent further extensions and modifications under the Grand Dukes of Tuscany, who succeeded the Medici as rulers of Florence. They added new wings to the palace, including the Palazzina della Meridiana, the Palazzina del Cavaliere, and the Galleria Palatina.
Must Checkout: Statues In Florence
In the late 18th century, the Grand Dukes of Tuscany were replaced by the Habsburg-Lorraine dynasty, who continued to reside in Palazzo Pitti. They made further changes to the palace, adding new apartments and renovating the interiors. In the mid-19th century, Florence became the capital of the newly formed Kingdom of Italy, and Palazzo Pitti became the residence of the Savoy family, the ruling family of Italy. They added new art collections to the palace, including the Modern Art Gallery, the Costume Gallery, and the Silver Museum.
You Can Also Checkout: Amusement Park in Florence
FAQs of Palazzo Pitti
What is the of Palazzo Pitti?
Palazzo Pitti was commissioned by the wealthy banker Luca Pitti in the 15th century. It was designed by Filippo Brunelleschi and was later purchased by the Medici family in 1550. Under the Medici's patronage, the palace underwent significant renovations and became a lavish residence. The Grand Dukes of Tuscany and the Habsburg-Lorraine dynasty also resided in the palace and made further modifications.
Who designed the Palazzo Pitti?
Palazzo Pitti was designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, a renowned architect who is also responsible for designing the dome of the Florence Cathedral.
What is the significance of the Boboli Gardens?
The Boboli Gardens are located behind Palazzo Pitti and were created by the Medici family. It is a stunning example of Italian garden design and features sculptures, fountains, and terraces. The gardens provide a peaceful escape from the busy city and offer panoramic views of Florence.
What is the Vasari Corridor?
The Vasari Corridor is a connecting corridor that links Palazzo Pitti with the Uffizi Gallery and the Palazzo Vecchio. It was built in the 16th century by Giorgio Vasari, a famous artist and architect, at the request of the Medici family. The corridor allowed them to move between the buildings without being seen by the public.
What can visitors see at Palazzo Pitti today?
Palazzo Pitti houses several museums and galleries, including the Palatine Gallery, the Gallery of Modern Art, and the Museum of Costume and Fashion. Visitors can see a vast collection of art, including works by Raphael, Titian, and Rubens. They can also explore the stunning Boboli Gardens and the Cortile, a large courtyard located at the center of the palace.
How long does it take to visit Palazzo Pitti?
The time required to visit Palazzo Pitti depends on the visitor's interest and schedule. It is recommended to allocate at least three hours to explore the palace, gardens, and museums. Visitors can also opt for guided tours to get a more in-depth understanding of the palace's history and art.