Superlatives abound for Florence’s Uffizi Gallery: the most famous, most extensive and, some say, most important gallery in the world.
According to the architect and father of art history writing, Giorgio Vasari, the Galleria degli Uffizi was a place where great artists such as Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo met "for beauty, for work and for recreation". What the gallery’s visitors now lack in artistic genius, they make up for in sheer number over one million pass through its doors every year.The U-shaped building was originally designed by Vasari as administrative offices, but became one of the world’s first art galleries in 1574 when the Grand Duke of Tuscany, Francesco I, started to store the Medici family’s collection here. The gallery later passed into public hands and it now houses pieces from over six centuries in more than 40 rooms across two levels. It is recognised as one of the most important collections of Western art worldwide and contains more than its fair share of masterpieces. The list of artists with works displayed here is like a who’s who of European greats: Raphael, Rembrandt, Botticelli and da Vinci are but a few.Located on the edge of the Piazza della Signoria in the heart of Florence, the Uffizi is an essential part of any visit to the Tuscan capital. The queues seen snaking along the square outside each day are infamous, so it is strongly recommended that you book ahead to avoid a long wait in the Tuscan sun.The vast scale of the collection can be a little less intimidating if you pick up one of the free guides from reception. Audio guides in a number of languages are also available for a small fee. Some of the most popular rooms include Room 15, where you’ll find early pieces by da Vinci, and the rooms housing Botticelli’s celebrated paintings "Primavera" and the "Birth of Venus". Among the other luminaries on display are Caravaggio, Giotto, Cimabue and Florence-born Michelangelo.After you’ve had your fill of masterpieces you can relax on the rooftop café, which serves up light meals and great views across the Piazza della Signoria. The gallery is open from Tuesday to Sunday and is closed on Christmas, New Year and May day.
