The Bargello National Museum, also known as the Museo Nazionale del Bargello, sits on Via del Proconsolo in the heart of Florence, Tuscany. It is housed in a 13th-century fortress-palace, and its thick walls and courtyards make the building itself part of the visit.
The museum is known as Italy's most important collection of sculpture. Its holdings include works by Donatello, Michelangelo and Benvenuto Cellini, so it suits anyone curious about how Florentine sculptors shaped the Renaissance. Because the rooms are arranged around the building's old spaces, the visit feels more like walking through a historic house than a modern gallery.
What to expect
- A medieval fortress-palace with a courtyard and stone staircases
- Sculpture from several centuries, with a strong focus on Renaissance work
- Pieces by Donatello, Michelangelo and Cellini
Planning your visit
The museum is a good choice for a visit of a few hours, especially if you enjoy close looking at sculpture. It is a short walk from the centre of Florence, so it fits easily into a day spent among the city's other historic sites. For opening times, tickets and current arrangements, contact the museum directly by phone at +39 055 064 9440 before you go.
