The Uffizi Gallery is located adjacent to the Piazza della Signoria and it's open inner courtyard leads to the River Arno. It holds a collection of artworks particularly from the period of the Italian Renaissance.
Uffizi Gallery |
Uffizi Gallery Inner courtyard entrance to River Arno |
The Uffizi complex, "office complex" was built for Cosimo I de' Medici to accommodate all of the committees, agencies, and guilds established in the Florentina Republican in one location to consolidate administrative control. The top floor was made into a gallery for the family and their guests and included their collection of Roman sculptures.
Uffizi Gallery Medici family |
When the House of Medici died out in 1730 their art collections were given to the city of Florence. In 1769 the Uffizi was opened to the public, formally becoming a museum in 1865.
Uffizi Gallery |