Discover one of Florence’s lesser-known treasures: the Orsanmichele Museum. Located between the iconic Florence Cathedral and the Uffizi Gallery, this historic site often goes unnoticed by many who pass by. But today, we’re taking you inside to explore its beauty and history!
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Our Visit to the Orsanmichele Museum
Florence is a city overflowing with treasures, making it easy to miss a few hidden gems. I can’t count how many times I’ve strolled down Via dei Calzaiuoli—the lively street linking the Duomo to Piazza della Signoria—without stopping to fully appreciate the magnificent Orsanmichele Museum.
The stone facade, with its Gothic niches and saintly sculptures, is hard to miss. But what many don’t know is that just around the corner on Via dell’Arte della Lana lies the museum entrance, opening the door to centuries of history.
On a bright and sunny December Sunday, I took my daughters to visit this remarkable place, steeped in art and culture.
A Brief History of Orsanmichele
Travel back in time to 8th-century Florence. On this site, a convent surrounded by gardens once stood. A small church, dedicated to Saint Michael the Archangel and named San Michele in Orto (“Saint Michael in the Garden”), was built here, giving rise to the name Orsanmichele.
In the 13th century, the church was demolished to make way for a grain market, featuring an open gallery (known as a “loggia” in Italian). However, the structure was destroyed by a fire in 1304.
It was replaced by a rectangular building with two additional floors, specifically designed for grain storage. Later, the site returned to its sacred purpose, thanks to the generosity of Florence’s guilds, who between the 14th and 16th centuries enriched the church with extraordinary sculptures and paintings.
Over time, the church gained significant religious importance. One of its most venerated artworks was a depiction of the Virgin Mary, which unfortunately has not survived. It was replaced by Madonna and Child by Bernardo Daddi (1347), framed by a magnificent marble tabernacle created by Andrea di Cione, also known as Orcagna (1359).
The Art of Orsanmichele
On the ground floor, Orsanmichele is a treasure trove for art enthusiasts. The church’s interior features frescoes on its vaults, painted between 1389 and 1400, which depict figures from the three biblical eras. The pillars are adorned with images of saints, patrons of Florence’s guilds.
The First Floor of the Orsanmichele Museum
The building’s facade is embellished with monumental sculptures commissioned by the guilds. Masterpieces by artists such as Donatello, Lorenzo Ghiberti, Nanni di Banco, Andrea del Verrocchio, and Giambologna once adorned its niches.
To preserve these invaluable works, the originals have been relocated to the museum’s first floor, replaced by replicas on the facade. The museum itself serves as a stunning gallery of Renaissance sculptures in marble and bronze, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship of the era.
The Second Floor of the Orsanmichele Museum
On the second floor, visitors can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of Florence. This space also features benches where you can rest and soak in the beauty and history of the surroundings.
Looking for a place to stay? Explore our top picks for hotels in Florence!
How to Plan Your Visit to the Orsanmichele Museum
The museum is open to visitors at the following times:
- Monday to Saturday: 8:30 AM – 6:30 PM
- Sunday: 8:30 AM – 1:30 PM (last admission at 12:00 PM due to religious services)
- Closed: Tuesdays and December 25th.
Tickets for Orsanmichele Museum
Tickets can be purchased on-site until 50 minutes before closing time:
Online reservations include an additional booking fee. Entry is free on the first Sunday of every month.
For art lovers and those seeking less obvious destinations in Florence, the Orsanmichele Museum is a must-visit. Its mix of art, history, and breathtaking views makes it a unique experience in the heart of the Renaissance city.
Have you visited Orsanmichele? Share your thoughts in the comments! If you have any questions or additional tips, let us know. And don’t forget to send this post to a friend planning their next trip to Italy! 🌟
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