Medici Riccardi Palace, Florence

Palace in Florence

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Sailko

Palazzo Medici Riccardi is one of the top attractions in Florence, a cornerstone of Renaissance architecture commissioned by Cosimo de' Medici and designed by Michelozzo in the mid-15th century. Standing near the Church of San Lorenzo, its rusticated stone façade, elegant mullioned windows, and imposing cornice reveal the refined yet powerful aesthetic that came to define Medici rule. It is also a great place to visit on a walking tour of Florence, especially for travellers fascinated by Medici history and Renaissance art.

Completed in 1460, the palace was home to Lorenzo the Magnificent and other members of the Medici family before later passing to the Riccardi Marquises. Over centuries, it evolved through expansions and artistic enhancements, becoming one of the best places to visit in Florence for understanding the city's political and cultural development.

History and Significance of Palazzo Medici Riccardi
Things to See and Do in Palazzo Medici Riccardi
How to Get to Palazzo Medici Riccardi
Practical Tips on Visiting Palazzo Medici Riccardi
Where to Stay close to Palazzo Medici Riccardi
Is Palazzo Medici Riccardi Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting Palazzo Medici Riccardi
Nearby Attractions to Palazzo Medici Riccardi

History and Significance of Palazzo Medici Riccardi

Palazzo Medici Riccardi was commissioned by Cosimo the Elder, who sought a residence that reflected the Medici's growing influence without appearing ostentatious. Michelozzo's design combined solidity with classical harmony, creating a model that would inspire generations of Renaissance palaces.

The building's history mirrors the trajectory of the Medici family itself. After Cosimo and Lorenzo the Magnificent lived here, the palace remained a centre of political and cultural life until the ducal court moved to Palazzo Vecchio in 1540. In 1659, the Medici sold the palace to the Riccardi Marquises, who transformed it with Baroque additions, including a grand gallery decorated by Luca Giordano.

The palace’s layered architecture and décor reflect a long lineage of wealth, power, and artistic patronage, making it an essential site for understanding Florence’s Renaissance legacy.

Things to See and Do in Palazzo Medici Riccardi

The palace’s courtyard, inspired by Brunelleschi’s architectural principles, offers a harmonious introduction to the building. From here, visitors can explore the small yet elegant Italian-style garden that once provided the Medici with privacy and tranquillity.

The highlight is the Chapel of the Magi, frescoed in 1459 by Benozzo Gozzoli. These vibrant frescoes depict the procession of the Magi, filled with lifelike portraits of Medici family members, Florentine nobles, and international figures who attended the Council of Florence in 1439. Rich in colour, symbolism, and historical detail, the chapel is one of the masterpieces of 15th-century painting.

Visitors can also explore the Baroque gallery added by the Riccardi family, featuring Luca Giordano’s spectacular ceiling fresco—an explosion of movement, allegory, and dramatic colour. The palace’s grand staircase, designed by Foggini, offers another example of Baroque artistry.

Rooms throughout the museum contain period furnishings, artworks, and exhibitions that illuminate the palace’s evolution across centuries.

How to Get to Palazzo Medici Riccardi

Florence Airport, Peretola, is the closest airport and connects to the city centre via tram and taxis. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Florence on Booking.com.

Travellers arriving by train will reach Santa Maria Novella station, from which it is a short 10–15 minute walk to the palace near San Lorenzo. 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 in the historic centre is limited due to ZTL restrictions, but parking outside the zone allows visitors to continue by foot or 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 Palazzo Medici Riccardi

Suggested tips: Reserve timed tickets to access the Chapel of the Magi, as entry is limited.
Best time to visit: Early morning for quieter viewing of the chapel.
Entrance fee in Euros: Around €10–€14.
Opening hours: Typically open daily except Wednesdays; seasonal variations apply.
Official website: Palazzo Medici Riccardi museum website.
How long to spend: 1–1.5 hours depending on areas visited.
Accessibility: Generally accessible; some historic sections have steps.
Facilities: Bookshop, restrooms, café options nearby.
Photography tip: The courtyard arcades provide excellent symmetry for architectural shots.
Guided tours: Available for the palace and the Chapel of the Magi.
Nearby food options: Numerous trattorias and cafés in the San Lorenzo area.

Where to Stay close to Palazzo Medici Riccardi

For a refined stay near San Lorenzo, consider Hotel Spadai, offering modern comfort steps from the palace. Another elegant choice is Palazzo Niccolini al Duomo, providing historic charm near the cathedral. For boutique style in a quieter setting, Firenze Suite offers spacious rooms within a short stroll of the palace.

Is Palazzo Medici Riccardi Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Palazzo Medici Riccardi is a vital link to Florence's Renaissance beginnings and the legacy of its most powerful family. From Michelozzo's architecture to Gozzoli's exquisite frescoes and Giordano's Baroque splendour, the palace offers an unforgettable journey through centuries of art, politics, and cultural ambition.

FAQs for Visiting Palazzo Medici Riccardi

Is the Chapel of the Magi included in the standard ticket?
Yes, but access is timed and limited, so reservations are recommended.

Can I visit the garden?
Yes, the garden is open to visitors and offers a peaceful retreat.

Is photography allowed inside?
Photography is generally permitted without flash, though restrictions apply in the chapel.

Nearby Attractions to Palazzo Medici Riccardi

Basilica di San Lorenzo – Historic Medici church with works by Brunelleschi and Donatello.
Medici Chapels – Mausoleum of the Medici dynasty featuring Michelangelo’s sculptures.
Galleria dell'Accademia – Home of Michelangelo's David.
Duomo Complex – Cathedral, Baptistery, and Giotto's Bell Tower.
Mercato Centrale – Popular food market with local and gourmet specialties.

The Medici Riccardi Palace appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Florence!

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