The Medici Chapels, Florence

Basilica in Florence

Cappelle Medici Basilica Di San Lorenzo Florence Italy

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Adam63

The Medici Chapels stand as one of the must-see places in Florence, offering a vivid and emotional journey into the lives and legacies of the city's most influential dynasty. Located within the Basilica of San Lorenzo—long considered the Medici family's official church—these chapels bring together art, architecture, and political symbolism in a way few sites can. The New Sacristy's sculptures, carved by Michelangelo, reveal a deeply human side to the famed Renaissance master, while the opulent Chapel of the Princes showcases the grandeur and prestige that the Medici projected across Tuscany. It is also often visited on walking tours of Florence, providing visitors with a rare look at the artistic and dynastic power of the family who shaped the city.

The complex includes two main areas open to visitors: Michelangelo's New Sacristy, begun in 1520, and the 17th-century Chapel of the Princes, designed as an awe-inspiring tribute to the Medici grand dukes. Together, these spaces form one of the top sights in Florence, telling a story that blends art and ambition, faith and politics, legacy and memory.

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

History and Significance of Medici Chapels

The Medici Chapels were born from a desire to create an extraordinary family mausoleum inside San Lorenzo, the church the Medici considered their spiritual home. In 1520, Cardinal Giulio de' Medici—later Pope Clement VII—commissioned Michelangelo to design the New Sacristy. The great artist created an architectural masterpiece that echoed Brunelleschi's Old Sacristy while adding innovative sculptural elements that explored themes of time, mortality, and human experience.

Michelangelo focused on the tombs of Giuliano de’ Medici, Duke of Nemours, and Lorenzo de’ Medici, Duke of Urbino. Their monuments are accompanied by the famous allegories of Day and Night on Giuliano’s tomb and Dawn and Dusk on Lorenzo’s, each symbolising the passage of time and the inevitability of death. At the centre stands the Medici Madonna, a powerful and contemplative sculpture of Mary with the Christ Child, reflecting Michelangelo’s emotional depth and spiritual intensity.

The adjacent Chapel of the Princes, begun in 1604 and completed in 1640, was designed by Matteo Nigetti under the direction of Don Giovanni de’ Medici. It represents the Medici dynasty at the height of its glory. Here, lavish marbles, pietre dure inlays, bronze statues, and an immense dome create a breathtaking expression of power, wealth, and dynastic pride.

Things to See and Do in Medici Chapels

The New Sacristy is a highlight for visitors, offering a rare chance to see Michelangelo’s sculptural and architectural work united within one space. The allegorical figures—Dawn, Dusk, Day, and Night—are among his most expressive creations, filled with motion, tension, and symbolism. The portraits of the Dukes add a striking sense of individuality to each monument.

The Medici Madonna at the centre of the chapel is another masterpiece, capturing a moment of introspection and quiet strength. Visitors are often struck by the emotional resonance of this sculpture, especially when viewed in the soft natural light that fills the room.

The Chapel of the Princes provides an entirely different experience. Stepping inside feels like entering a jewel box of marbles and semi-precious stones. The soaring dome, monumental sarcophagi, and intricate pietre dure work create an overwhelming sense of splendour. This space was intended not only as a burial site but as a grand statement of Medici authority.

How to Get to Medici Chapels

Florence Airport, Peretola, is the nearest international airport and offers quick tram and taxi connections into the historic centre. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Florence on Booking.com.

Visitors arriving by train will come into Santa Maria Novella station, from which it is a 10–15 minute walk to the Basilica of San Lorenzo and the Medici Chapels. 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 centre is difficult due to ZTL zones, though paid parking outside the restricted area allows visitors to continue 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 Medici Chapels

Suggested tips: Arrive early to appreciate the chapels in a quieter atmosphere.
Best time to visit: Late morning, when the natural light inside the New Sacristy is at its best.
Entrance fee in Euros: Approximately €10–€12.
Opening hours: Usually open daily; hours may vary seasonally.
Official website: Musei del Bargello official site.
How long to spend: 45 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on interest in sculpture and architecture.
Accessibility: The site is partially accessible; some areas may have steps.
Facilities: Restrooms and a small ticket office; cafés nearby in the San Lorenzo district.
Photography tip: Photograph the allegorical statues from slightly lower angles to capture their dramatic movement.
Guided tours: Available through licensed guides and often included in Renaissance Florence tours.
Nearby food options: The San Lorenzo market area offers many trattorias and cafés.

Where to Stay close to Medici Chapels

For travellers wanting to stay near San Lorenzo, Hotel Glance In Florence offers modern comfort steps from the chapels. A boutique alternative is Hotel Cerretani Firenze MGallery, combining style with a prime location near the Duomo. Another excellent choice is Hotel Orto de’ Medici, providing elegant rooms within easy reach of the basilica.

Is Medici Chapels Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. The Medici Chapels offer one of Florence's most compelling experiences, blending Michelangelo's genius with the grandeur of Tuscan ducal history. The combination of sculptural masterpieces, architectural innovation, and lavish decoration makes the site unforgettable. For anyone interested in Renaissance art, Medici history, or the evolution of Florentine power, these chapels are essential.

FAQs for Visiting Medici Chapels

Are the Medici Chapels part of the Basilica of San Lorenzo?
Yes, they form part of the complex but have a separate entrance and ticket.

Is photography allowed inside?
Photography is generally allowed without flash, though rules may vary in specific areas.

Are Michelangelo’s sculptures all finished?
No, several works in the New Sacristy remain unfinished, offering rare insight into his working process.

Nearby Attractions to Medici Chapels

Basilica of San Lorenzo – The Medici family’s parish church with works by Brunelleschi and Donatello.
Mercato Centrale – A lively indoor food market filled with local specialties.
Palazzo Medici Riccardi – Early Medici residence featuring the Chapel of the Magi.
Piazza del Duomo – Home to Florence Cathedral, Giotto's Bell Tower, and the Baptistery.
Galleria dell'Accademia – Museum housing Michelangelo's David and Renaissance masterpieces.

The The Medici Chapels appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Florence!

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