Vasari Corridor - Free Audio Guide

The Corridoio Vasariano, or Vasari Corridor, is an elevated pathway in Florence, Italy, designed by the architect Giorgio Vasari in 1565. It was commissioned by Duke Cosimo I de' Medici to connect the Palazzo Vecchio, the seat of Florentine power, to the Palazzo Pitti, the residence of the Medici family. The corridor allows the Medici family to move safely and privately through the city, away from public view. Historically, the corridor is significant as it reflects the power dynamics of the Medici dynasty and their desire for security and privacy. The corridor is adorned with a collection of over 1,000 portraits of notable figures, showcasing the Medici's influence on art and culture during the Renaissance. Today, the Corridoio Vasariano remains a symbol of Florence’s artistic heritage and is an important cultural landmark. Visitors can appreciate its architectural elegance and the historical context of the Medici family’s contributions to the arts. Access to the corridor is limited, but guided tours occasionally allow visitors to experience this unique passage, making it a fascinating point of interest for those exploring Florence's rich history.