Bargello Museum Guided Tour

Step into a medieval palace where Florence’s greatest sculptors made history.

Getting started

Meet your expert guide at the entrance of the Bargello Museum and breeze past the ticket line. A quick security check later, you’ll step into the former palace-turned-prison, now home to some of the most groundbreaking sculptures of the Renaissance.

What to expect

Bargello Museum

Once a medieval fortress, this museum is the heart of Renaissance sculpture, showcasing works by Michelangelo, Donatello, and more.

Donatello’s David

The first free-standing nude sculpture since antiquity, this bronze masterpiece redefined art in the 15th century.

Michelangelo’s Bacchus

An intoxicating, rebellious take on the Roman god of wine, crafted when Michelangelo was just 21.

Verrocchio’s Saint George

A striking marble statue of Florence’s patron saint, capturing both motion and emotion.

Take in the grandeur of the museum’s arched courtyards, frescoed ceilings, and rare ivory carvings as your guide brings history to life. Once the tour ends, feel free to wander at your own pace and revisit the sculptures that captivated you most.

Bargello Museum Guided Tour

Step into the heart of early Renaissance artistry as you venture through the Bargello Museum, a sanctuary where masterpieces by Donatello, Verrocchio, and Michelangelo whisper tales of their creators' genius. Crafted for explorers of Italian sculpture, devotees of Renaissance art, and seekers of historical insight, this guided tour unveils the intricate details behind each work, such as Donatello’s David standing proudly at over four feet tall. With skip-the-line access and insightful commentary provided through your radio system, you'll feel immersed in a world where every piece tells a story of artistic evolution and innovation. This experience weaves history and artistry together, offering memorable encounters to forge lasting connections while understanding that the museum's treasures are windows into a bygone era.

Visiting Donatello’s David

Visit Donatello’s iconic bronze statue during your tour of the Bargello Museum. Standing tall at nearly 150 centimeters, this sculpture captures the essence of early Renaissance artistry with its lifelike proportions and dynamic pose. The statue's intricate details—from the delicate folds in David's robe to the confident stance—demonstrate Donatello’s mastery over form and expression. Each element of the work invites visitors to ponder not just the technical skill but also the philosophical underpinnings of Renaissance humanism.

Experience Michelangelo’s Tondo Pitti

Experience Michelangelo's Tondo Pitti, a masterpiece showcased within the museum's collection. This circular painting, measuring approximately 50 centimeters in diameter, showcases the artist's early prowess with portraiture and composition. The work's intricate details and vibrant colors reflect the young Michelangelo’s keen eye for detail and his innovative approach to traditional subjects. Visitors are invited to delve into the rich layers of symbolism and emotion embedded within this iconic piece.

Discovering Andrea della Robbia’s Glazed Terracotta

Discover Andrea della Robbia's exquisite glazed terracotta works, which adorn various sections of the museum. Known for his unique technique of applying vibrant enamels to fired clay sculptures, Della Robbia created pieces that are both visually striking and technically sophisticated. Each work showcases a range of subjects from religious figures to mythological scenes, offering visitors a glimpse into the diverse themes explored by Renaissance artists.

Experiencing Giovanni della Robbia’s Masterpieces

Experience Giovanni della Robbia's masterful terracotta sculptures, which continue the family legacy with their own distinctive touch. These works, often featuring religious motifs and decorative elements, demonstrate a high level of craftsmanship and artistic vision that complements yet diverges from his father's style. Visitors are encouraged to appreciate both the technical achievements and the emotional resonance of these pieces.

Tour Highlights

• Visit Donatello’s iconic bronze David standing proudly at nearly 150 centimeters
• Experience Michelangelo’s Tondo Pitti showcasing early Renaissance portraiture skills
• Discover Andrea della Robbia’s vibrant glazed terracotta works adorned throughout the museum
• Explore Giovanni della Robbia’s masterful terracotta sculptures diverging yet complementing his father's legacy
• Access the museum with skip-the-line tickets and free revisits to any exhibits you wish to see again after the tour ends
• Hear fascinating insights about early Renaissance works through your radio system providing unparalleled historical context

Enchant for explorers of Italian sculpture, captivate devotees of Renaissance artistry, and inspire seekers of historical insight, this guided journey into the Bargello Museum’s treasures offers a glimpse into the transformative period that birthed some of history's most enduring artistic expressions. Like stepping stones in a river, each piece in the collection marks a significant point in the evolution of Western art, inviting you to trace the currents of creativity and innovation.