Loggia della Signoria, Florence

Historic Building and Museum in Florence

Loggia dei Lanzi
Loggia dei Lanzi
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Freepenguin

The Loggia della Signoria, also known as the Loggia dei Lanzi, is one of the best places to visit in Florence for travellers who want to experience art, history, and architecture woven seamlessly into public life. Standing along the edge of Piazza della Signoria and beside the Uffizi Gallery, this elegant open-air gallery reveals a magnificent collection of sculptures framed by wide, graceful arches. It is a great place to visit on a walking tour of Florence, as it offers an intimate encounter with masterpieces by Giambologna, Cellini, and other great artists.

Built in the late 14th century, the Loggia blends Gothic and early Renaissance sensibilities. Its sculptures were carefully chosen not only for their beauty but for their political symbolism during the Medici era. The result is an extraordinary space where art communicates power, mythology, civic identity, and human emotion, making the loggia one of the top sights in Florence for anyone fascinated by cultural history.

History and Significance of Loggia della Signoria

Constructed between 1376 and 1382 by Benci di Cione and Simone Talenti, the Loggia was originally designed to host public ceremonies of the Florentine Republic, including the swearing-in of magistrates and other civic rituals. With its open arches facing the piazza, the structure served as a symbolic link between the government and the citizens.

When the Medici family rose to power in the 16th century, the purpose of the Loggia shifted. It became an emblem of Medici authority, and the sculptures placed within it were selected to promote messages of strength, justice, and dynastic legitimacy. The Medici understood the power of art in shaping public perception, and the Loggia became a stage where mythological and allegorical figures subtly reinforced their rule.

In later years, after the Uffizi complex was built, architect Bernardo Buontalenti created a rooftop garden above the Loggia. From this elevated terrace, the Medici could watch ceremonies unfolding in the square without being directly exposed to the crowds. Today, this terrace forms part of the Uffizi’s viewing area, adding another layer of historical richness to the Loggia’s story.

Things to See and Do in Loggia della Signoria

At the top of the stairs, two impressive lions greet visitors-one an ancient Roman sculpture and the other crafted by Flaminio Vacca in 1598 and moved here from the Villa Medici in 1789. These imposing figures symbolise vigilance and civic strength.

Inside the Loggia, masterpieces such as Benvenuto Cellini's bronze Perseus stand out with their dramatic detail and expressive storytelling. Giambologna's Rape of the Sabine Women showcases the artist's mastery of movement and emotion, a spiralling composition that rewards viewing from every angle. Other sculptures include classical works brought to Florence during the Renaissance revival of antiquity.

The Loggia’s architecture, with its graceful arches and elegant proportions, is equally captivating. Scholars believe Filippo Brunelleschi may have drawn inspiration from these arches when designing the Spedale degli Innocenti, considered the first true Renaissance building.

How to Get to Loggia della Signoria

Florence Airport, Peretola, is the closest international airport and offers convenient access to the city centre via tram or taxi services. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Florence on Booking.com.

Many travellers arrive by train at Santa Maria Novella station, from where it is an easy 15-20 minute walk to Piazza della Signoria and the Loggia. Use Omnio to easily compare schedules, book train tickets, and find the best prices all in one place for a hassle-free journey across Italy.

Driving into Florence’s historic centre is difficult due to ZTL restrictions, but parking areas on the outskirts allow visitors to approach the site on foot or by taxi. If you are looking to rent a car in Italy I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting Loggia della Signoria

  • Suggested tips: Visit early in the morning for quieter viewing or at night when sculptures are beautifully illuminated.
  • Best time to visit: Late afternoon offers dramatic lighting on the sculptures.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Free, as it is an open-air gallery.
  • Opening hours: Accessible at all times.
  • Official website: Refer to the Uffizi Galleries official site.
  • How long to spend: 20-40 minutes depending on interest in sculpture.
  • Accessibility: The piazza area is flat and accessible, though some steps lead into the loggia.
  • Facilities: Cafés, restaurants, and public restrooms nearby.
  • Photography tip: Capture Giambologna’s sculptures from multiple angles to appreciate their dynamic movement.
  • Guided tours: Many walking tours include detailed explanations of the Loggia’s artwork.
  • Nearby food options: Numerous trattorias and wine bars fill the surrounding streets.

Where to Stay close to Loggia della Signoria

For those staying in the heart of Florence, Relais Piazza Signoria offers modern suites overlooking the square itself. A refined alternative is Hotel Bernini Palace, located a short walk away with elegant Renaissance-era interiors. Another nearby option is Hotel degli Orafi, known for its comfortable rooms and beautiful rooftop terrace.

Is Loggia della Signoria Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. The Loggia della Signoria is a rare opportunity to admire Renaissance and classical sculpture in a fully open, public setting. Its historical role, artistic treasures, and striking architecture make it a remarkable place to pause, reflect, and appreciate Florence's cultural depth. Whether you're an art enthusiast or a casual visitor, the Loggia offers a memorable encounter with the city's enduring creative spirit.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.8 (1,561)

Loggia dei Lanzi at Piazza della Signoria is a 14th-century ceremonial loggia turned open-air sculpture gallery where marble and bronze masterpieces sit beneath wide arches beside Palazzo Vecchio; it's free and always accessible, letting you get close to famed works such as Perseus with the Head of Medusa, Giambologna's Rape of the Sabine Women, Hercules and Nessus, and several ancient Roman statues, with copies in place to protect some originals, creating a lively, informal spot to rest, take photos, and soak up Florence's art integrated into everyday city life.

Witold Drutel
2 months ago
"The Loggia di Lanzi is a stu ing, must-see architectural and artistic landmark. More than just a covered passageway, it's a veritable open-air museumwhere dramatic and powerful 16th-century sculptural groups are on display for all to see, right next to the Palazzo Vecchio. The Loggia's unique feature is that it's always accessible and doesn't require a ticket. It's a place where you can sit and soak up history, watching thousands of people pass by while the eternal drama unfolds right next to you. The Loggia di Lanzi is one of the most informal and impressive places in Florence. It's not just art; it's a part of the city's life that can't be missed...."
Andreas Nielsen
3 months ago
"The Loggia dei Lanzi is a stu ing open-air sculpture gallery right on Piazza della Signoria. It’s like stepping into a live history lesson—everycorner is filled with incredible Renaissance and classical statues, including Cellini’s Perseus with the Head of Medusa and Giambologna’s Rape of the Sabine Women. Being outdoors makes it easy to admire the details up close, and the open arches give a beautiful frame for photos of the surrounding piazza. The atmosphere is lively yet contemplative, blending art, history, and Florence’s city life in one spot...."
E Scott Parks
3 weeks ago
"The Loggia offers one of the most dramatic open-air sculpture displays anywhere in Florence, essentially a museum without walls sitting right offPiazza della Signoria. The setting alone is remarkable: a 14th-century ceremonial loggia built for public gatherings, now home to a collection of marble and bronze works that chart centuries of mythology, political messaging, and artistic ambition. The sculptures themselves create a kind of frozen theatre. Giambologna's Rape of the Sabine Women spirals upward in a feat of technical showmanship, every limb and expression pulling the eye higher. Nearby, Hercules and Nessus captures strength and struggle in uncompromising detail. Even the quieter Roman works along the back wall add weight, grounding the space in the classical traditions the Renaissance loved to resurrect. What makes the Loggia especially compelling is how seamlessly art and everyday life mix here-people rest in the shade beneath figures carved for dukes and princes, tourists drift through scenes once intended to convey power and virtue, and the whole space stays completely open to the street. No ticket, no queue, just world-class sculpture integrated into the rhythm of the city. A perfect stop to linger, cool down, and take in some of Florence's most expressive storytelling in stone...."

FAQs for Visiting Loggia della Signoria

No, the Loggia is free to visit at any time.
Yes, photography is allowed, and the lighting is excellent throughout the day.
Yes, the piazza is accessible, though the raised platform inside the Loggia involves steps.

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The Loggia della Signoria appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Florence!

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Planning Your Visit

Address: Loggia dei Lanzi, Piazza della Signoria, Florence, Metropolitan City of Florence, Italy
Florence: 0 km

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