After 8 years of anticipation and meticulous restoration, the once secret passageway for the Medici rulers, the Vasari Corridor has reopened its doors to the public, reclaiming its place as one of Florence’s most enigmatic and evocative treasures. This celebrated elevated walkway, conceived by Giorgio Vasari in 1565 for Cosimo I de’ Medici, has long captured the imagination of travellers and Florentines alike with its blend of history, art, and architectural ingenuity.
The reopening marks not only the return of a secretive route that once shielded Medici rulers from the city’s gaze, but also the unveiling of a transformed cultural experience.
A Secret Thread Through History
Giorgio Vasari was a giant of the Italian Renaissance. Like so many talented Italian artists of the time, Vasari was multidisciplinary and excelled in painting, sculpting and architecture. Under the patronage of Grand Duke Cosimo I de’ Medici, Vasari held the esteemed position of court painter and architect. He was commissioned to design a passageway for the Medici to move safely from their private residence at Palazzo Pitti to the seat of government, Palazzo Vecchio. The passageway was completed in just 5 months and inaugurated in 1565 to coincide with the wedding of Francesco I de’ Medici and Giovanna of Austria.
Celebrated as a remarkable feat of Renaissance engineering, the elevated corridor stretches roughly one kilometre in length. It served not just as a secret passage but as a living museum, adorned with artworks and portraits collected by the Medici family over the centuries. Its unique vantage points and hidden nooks provide glimpses into the history, architecture, and artistry that have defined Florence for generations.
To walk the Vasari Corridor is to follow in the footsteps of dukes and artists, traversing a thread of history that quietly binds together the city’s treasures.
Starting Point: The Uffizi Gallery
The journey of the Vasari Corridor begins at the Uffizi Gallery, one of the world’s most renowned art museums. The entrance is discreetly tucked away on the upper floor of the eastern wing, originally intended for the offices (“Uffizi”) of Florentine magistrates. From here, the corridor sets off above the bustling Piazza della Signoria, immediately immersing its visitors in the world of Medici intrigue and power.
Crossing the Ponte Vecchio
The corridor soon reaches one of its most iconic segments: its passage above the Ponte Vecchio, Florence’s oldest and most picturesque bridge. Elevated over the bustling gold and jewellery shops, the corridor offers unique, bird’s-eye views of both the bridge’s lively commerce and the gentle flow of the Arno River. Small original windows and later panoramic additions allow glimpses of city life and Florence’s celebrated skyline.
Winding Through the Oltrarno
Once it crosses the Ponte Vecchio, the Vasari Corridor enters the Oltrarno district, the area of Florence “beyond the Arno.” Here, the passageway snakes above the streets and private buildings, occasionally narrowing and turning as it navigates the medieval cityscape. It cleverly passes through or over existing structures, including the historic Church of Santa Felicita, where the Medici could attend mass unseen from a private balcony built directly into the church interior.
Ending at the Palazzo Pitti
The final stretch of the corridor leads to the imposing Palazzo Pitti, the grand residence of the Medici family. Here, the corridor discreetly emerges within the palace itself, seamlessly linking the administrative heart of Florence to the Medici’s private domain and, ultimately, to the lush Boboli Gardens behind.
How to Access Florence’s Legendary Passage
The Vasari Corridor is only accessible via guided tours. Tickets should be booked well in advance, as availability is limited due to preservation efforts and high demand. Tours typically include an expert guide and must be reserved through authorized museum partners or the Uffizi Gallery’s official channels. Tickets often include entry to related sites like the Uffizi or Palazzo Pitti. Prepare for strict security checks and plan ahead to fully appreciate this exclusive journey through Florence’s hidden history. The family team at Vita Italian Tours including Nina who called Florence home for over 16 years can plan and book entrance for your next visit to Florence. Our very own guide in Florence, Alessandra has been bringing this beautiful city to life for our travellers for decades.
Travel with us to Magnificent Florence
As well as the Vasari Corridor, Florence dazzles visitors with Renaissance masterpieces, striking architecture, and a vibrant street life. World-class museums, iconic landmarks like the Duomo and delicious Tuscan cuisine make it irresistible. Stroll medieval lanes and savour the city’s unique blend of history, art, and culture.
Visit Florence with us at Vita Italian Tours on one of our many exclusive small group journeys. If its your first time in Italy – then a visit to Florence as part of our Grand Tour of Italy is ideal. Our Grand Tour of Italy is a great way to introduce yourself to the wonders of this incredible country and the amazing sites of the Florentine capital.
For others who would like to spend more time exploring Tuscany and its surrounds, then our Best of Le Marche, Tuscany and Umbria Tour that takes in the three central regions of the green heart of Italy is a must. Get away from the crowds and discover authentic Italy.
If independent travel is more your style, allow Vita Italian Tours with our decades of experience living, studying and touring in Italy to plan a tailor-made self-drive or chauffeur driven private itinerary/tour for you to Florence, Italy and its surrounds.
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