words Al Woods
Renaissance means “rebirth” and it marks the transition culturally and artistically from the Middle Ages to the modern period. Florence is seen as the heart of the Renaissance. As such it is historically and culturally important.
Today, when you visit the country, you’ll find an abundance of architectural delights and pieces of art dating from this period. It’s worth noting that the Renaissance changed Florence, then Italy, and then the rest of Europe. Its influence can be felt through everything, including science, philosophy, art, literature, politics, and even religion.
Florence Renaissance art really started in Florence toward the end of the 1300s. By the late 1400s, it was spreading rapidly across Europe.
Although this is the official timeline, many scholars feel that some of the most famous artists from Florence, including Giotto, and philosophers like Dante, were instrumental in planting the seeds of the renaissance.
Whatever your feelings, there is little doubt the Renaissance movement in Florence is a fascinating period of history.
Why You Should Visit The Florence Renaissance Art Museum
The best way to appreciate Florence Renaissance art and all the artists from Florence is to visit the Florence Renaissance Art Museum.
In fact, there are several museums relating to the Renaissance worth visiting.
Museo Nazionale del Bargello
This museum lives in the oldest public building in the city and is home to some of the greatest Renaissance masterpieces. You’ll find sculptures from Michelangelo, Cellini, Donatello, Verrocchio, and Giambologna.
The building is also a monument to the Renaissance. It was built in 1255 and was used by the police for many years. It wasn’t until its restoration in 1865 that it became a National Museum. Since then the collection of masterpieces has grown.
Galleria Dell’Accademia di Firenze
This is where you’ll find Michelangelo’s David, one of the most famous and impressive sculptures ever made. Of course, it’s home to many other outstanding sculptures, paintings, and even musical instruments post-renaissance.
Uffizi Galleria
This gallery is found in the center of Florence. It’s generally considered one of the most important museums in Italy and is one of the most visited.
It’s home to the impressive art collection given to the city by the House of Medici by the last Medici heiress. It’s been open since the sixteenth century, although only open to the public since 1769.
House of Dante
Another impressive Florence Renaissance museum is the House of Dante. The museum incorporates medieval houses, including one of the Giuochi towers. Unsurprisingly, this museum is devoted to Dante who predates the Renaissance.
However, it’s argued that the Renaissance was born from seeds he sowed, making this a culturally and historically important part of the Renaissance in Florence.
Summing Up
There’s an abundance of Florence Renaissance art within the city. You don’t need to be a history or even an art fanatic, to appreciate the quality of the work on display.
You simply need to visit Florence’s renaissance art museums and be amazed.
