Museo Nazionale del Bargello

Overview

The Bargello is Florence's premier sculpture museum, housed in a 1255 fortress that served as the city's first town hall, then a prison. Its courtyard and halls display works by Donatello, Michelangelo, Cellini, and Giambologna.

Highlights

• Donatello's David: The first freestanding male nude sculpture since antiquity (c. 1440).
• Michelangelo's Bacchus: An early work showing the young sculptor's virtuosity.
• Cellini's Perseus model: The bronze maquette for the iconic Perseus in the Loggia dei Lanzi.

History

Built in 1255 as the Palazzo del Podestà, it became a prison and place of execution (the 'Bargello' was the chief of police). Converted to a museum in 1865.

Visitor Tips

• Often overlooked: Far fewer visitors than the Uffizi—enjoy the sculptures in relative peace.
• Courtyard: A beautiful Gothic arcaded courtyard free to enter.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.