Palazzo Medici Riccardi - Free Audio Guide

Palazzo Medici Riccardi is a historic building located at Via Cavour 3 in Florence, Italy. Originally constructed between 1444 and 1460 for Cosimo de' Medici, it served as the first residence of the Medici family in Florence. The architect Michelozzo designed this cubic structure, which features a sober and austere exterior, contrasting with the grandiosity typical of the era. Significant for its cultural and artistic heritage, the palace was home to notable figures such as Lorenzo the Magnificent, who enriched it with valuable art collections, including works by Donatello, Botticelli, and Verrocchio. After the Medici family, the palace was acquired by the Riccardi family in 1659, who expanded the building and maintained it for two centuries. Today, Palazzo Medici Riccardi houses the Metropolitan Council and serves as a museum, showcasing its rich history and art, including the famous Chapel of the Magi, adorned with frescoes by Benozzo Gozzoli. The palace is a key example of Renaissance architecture and offers visitors insights into the political, cultural, and artistic life of Florence during the Medici's influence. It stands as a testament to the city's historical significance and its role in the development of the Renaissance. Visitors can explore its stunning courtyards, galleries, and gardens, making it a must-see destination in Florence.