Museo Nazionale del Bargello

16 Best Things to Do in Florence

"Museo Nazionale del Bargello—which opened in 1865 by order of by royal decree, making it Italy’s first national museum—houses the city’s most important collection of Renaissance sculpture. A former barracks and prison, the building alone is impressive, never mind the masterpieces by Michelangelo and Donatello. The museum also houses bronzes, ceramics, waxes, enamels, medals, ivories, tapestries, seals, and textiles, some from the Medici collections and others from convents or private collectors. Don't miss David, by Donatello." - Erica Firpo

Bargello Museum - Museum Review | Condé Nast Traveler

"Tell us a bit about this place. Museo Nazionale del Bargello—which opened in 1865 by order of by royal decree, making it Italy’s first national museum—houses the city’s most important collection of Renaissance sculpture. A former barracks and prison, the building alone is impressive, never mind the masterpieces by Michelangelo and Donatello. Tell us a bit more about these masterpieces. What can we expect to see here? The Bargello’s collection includes some of the most important works of Renaissance sculpture: masterpieces by Donatello, Luca della Robbia, Andrea del Verrocchio, Michelangelo, and Benvenuto Cellini. The building also houses bronzes, ceramics, waxes, enamels, medals, ivories, tapestries, seals, and textiles, some from the Medici collections and others from convents or private collectors. In 1888, Louis Carrand, an antiquarian from Lyon, made one of the most important donations to Bargello: more than 2,500 paintings and works of decorative art. How would you rate the crowd, from dead quiet to bustling? This museum isn't terribly busy. The building is huge, which means you'll get to enjoy it without the usual touristy throngs. If we need some guidance through the museum, what are our options? An audio guide (six euros) gives a good overview of the gallery and history of the building, but, rather curiously, it doesn't really talk about individual works of art. Souvenir-wise, how's the gift shop? There's a small, limited gift shop. It's not the draw here. And the café? There's no café onsite, but there are plenty nearby. If we're a bit short on time, what should we make sure to see at the Bargello? The museum spans three floors; you can definitely take in a great deal in an hour. Don't miss David , by Donatello." - Bridget Arsenault

10 Best Museums in Florence | Condé Nast Traveler

Teodora F

Google

A beautiful museum in the heart of the city, home to some of the most appreciated pieces from the likes of Michelangelo and Donatello. Although not the biggest museum in Firenze, Bargello does a great job to showcase a little bit of everything. Its carefully curated collection takes us back to the Renaissance times of Fiorentine life, thanks to the many artefacts and household items which are exhibited throughout the place. Definitely a must visit if you’re in town, especially since it won’t take you longer than an hour to see it from beginning to end!

Zack Austin

Google

Slightly underwhelming, although worth the visit after seeing the other main attractions Florence has to offer. The sculptures kept within the large, ground floor room are brilliant, and Donatello’s pieces are definitely the most popular.

stewart hutcheon

Google

We went here today and thought it was fantastic, stunning building, no queue, the museum is packed with gorgeous items, statues, ceramics, jewellery, armour etc. It very much reminded us of the V&A in London. So much more value and interest than the Academy, which has Michelangelo's David but not much else of interest

Travis Mager

Google

A top-tier museum in Florence. Visited using the Firenzepass and loved the palace setting. Donatello’s David was, naturally, a highlight, but the collection of Renaissance sculptures and ceramics was worth the visit as well. I found it less crowded than other places in Florence despite its fame and collection.

David Bartlett

Google

A smaller museum but still boast Michelangelo and Donatello. Here you see the alternative version of David by Donatello

Pong Lenis

Google

This is an absolutely fascinating museum, I was here a couple of years ago and I can only image how much better it is now. It’s has an amazing collection of statues, monuments, artworks, paintings and memorabilia. It’s very well preserved and displayed, it is a very unique and historical museum. I took home a nice souvenir and books about the museum’s collection. I really enjoyed my time here and I would definitely recommend visiting this museum when in Florence.

lisa rado

Google

This! Wonderful place to see and be. Quiet, not rushed, and easy in and out. Lived spending time here. We'll worth the effort. Especially after the craziness of the Uffizi.

Kurt Bridges

Google

A very nice, quiet, uncrowded place to see Renaissance art (and other works from different locations and times.) Best part was just showing up, buying a ticket, and walking in the door. At some points, I was alone which was miraculous compared to other places.

Ann L.

Yelp

This is one of the few places open on Mondays and we were pleasantly surprised that it was not at all crowded despite limited options available on Mondays to all of us tourists....you can also use the FirenzeCard here. We were really impressed with the wide range of sculptures, ceramics, paintings and architecture here. This is another place where it's important to look up to appreciate the ceilings in addition to the art on display in each room. Definitely don't miss this museum if you're visiting Florence!

Marcia R.

Yelp

The Uffizi of sculpture. While many visitors flock to Michelangelo's David, we loved Donatello's jauntier version.

Brandy G.

Yelp

The Bargello Museum is one of the most underrated museums in Florence. Once you're tired of having your personal space invaded and viewing Renaissance paintings at the Uffizi, or fighting the crowds at the Academy - the Bargello will be a welcome respite. The Bargello specializes in featuring nothing but sculptures from the likes of Michelangelo, Rafael, Bernini, and more. Some of the art world's most famous Renaissance statues are housed here (like Michelangelo's Baccchus) and unlike the Uffizi that is packed with people, at the Bargello you have time to get up close and personal with the sculptures and take your time admiring and taking in all the incredible details. The entry cost in minimal (8 euro) and if you're in Florence on the first Sunday of the month entry is free. And if that wasn't good enough, be sure to download Rick Steve's free audio tour on your cellphone to use as your companion to guide you through all the rooms of the museum. It truly does enhance your visit and point out elements you would never notice on your own. Don't miss this wonderful museum housing some of the world's most priceless sculptures the next time you're in Florence!

Joanna T.

Yelp

When you've seen 10,000 Madonna and Child paintings at the Uffizi and Accademia, a sculpture museum is a nice break. The Bargello appeals on a few different levels: First and obviously - the art. Michelangelo's Bacchus and Brutus are here (the latter was sadly on loan during our visit), there are some Della Robbia terra-cotta masterpieces and of course there's Donatello's David. He's a fancy one. Second, the building itself has s long and interesting history as a fortress, civic building and prison. They do a nice job of explaining the historical rooms and what they used to be. Finally, it wasn't nuts to butts crowded (at least on our trip) like the other museums. You could really get close and admire the details on pieces.

David F.

Yelp

We had heard the Bargello Museum is to sculpture as the Uffizi is to paintings - thus, another museum on our must-see list in Florence! Arriving on a Thursday morning, with me energy-challenged from a bothersome cold, we spent a delightful hour or two walking through this museum. Adding to the experience: it is relatively uncrowded, a relative rarity here in Florence. You enter into a magnificent courtyard, several stories tall, and filled with gorgeous statuary. We then roamed around the various rooms, starting at the upper floors, and saving the best-for-last lower floor. The height of Renaissance sculpture is here. Donatello's David - the first male nude sculpture of the Renaissance - and many other of his wonderful statues. Also works by Michelangelo, Bandinelli and numerous others. We used our Fireze card; I've also seen that this museum is cash only otherwise.

William G.

Yelp

We were in Florence in November and didn't expect crowds. Little did we know. The main sights such as the Uffizi, Duomo, and Academy were very crowded. Probably not as much so as during the summer but still lots of people, lines, etc. On the other hand less famous venues such as the Museo Nazionale de Bargello were very sparsely populated and offered opportunities for quiet contemplation of works of art in beautiful settings. The Bargello is primarily focused on sculpture. In particular you can examine Donatello's famous statue of David with the head of Goliath without scores of gawkers disturbing you. The interior of the building itself is beautiful even without the art. The Bargello is well worth an afternoon visit. There are many nice cafes and restaurants nearby.

Joel E.

Yelp

The Bargello was one of my favorite museums in Florence. It was surprisingly interesting. "Bargello" means Castle . . . or Fortified Tower. From it's exterior it certainly is all of this . . . but after entering you'll discover a ton of incredible sculptures and artifacts dating back to the Middle Ages. The Bargello was originally built in the 1200's!! The Bargello has an impressive and somewhat austere inner courtyard and numerous rooms each with their own character and unique appeal. I enjoyed just sitting and looking up at the impressive high walls and ceilings . . . and imagining in my mind's eye what it would have been like to have been within this Fortress back in it's historical era. The Bargello's museum houses masterpiece sculptures by Michelangelo among it's extensive art collection. You'll also discover a fine collection of ceramics, ivory, silver, coins, textiles & tapestries, as well as some very impressive armor. The Palazzo del Bargello may not be the most well known museum in Florence, but I would strongly recommend not missing it.

Jenna D.

Yelp

8 euros to get in, but even if you can't pay, you can still get a glimpse inside from the full length glass windows on the street. Interesting history of the structure (used to be a prison). I like how the art doesn't feel too crowded in (especially on the ground floor). The second floor was closed when I was there. Took off a star because they didn't have the audio guide when I was there, and I am a big fan of those!! Sculptures range in size, artist, purpose, and material. Very cool. I recommend going right when they open at 8:15. No one is there, and this is one of the earlier opening attractions.

Heath R.

Yelp

I was really impressed with this museum. All the sculptures. Flying Mercury was awesome. Donatello and Verrocchio Davids right next to each other. You can compare the two together. Michelangelo's has a few sculptures in the hall also. Great place to spend a couple of hours.

Greg M.

Yelp

This was one of the standouts from our visit and a nice respite from the crowds. Donatello and the other quattrocento works were the highlights for me, especially the St John.

Dale H.

Yelp

I've never been a huge fan of sculpture ... until this trip to Italy. The Bargello in Florence and The Borghese in Rome changed how I appreciate the art of shaping marble and bronze into something pleasing to the eye. The building itself is spectacular. It was built in 1255 as a kind of "police station" and prison. There is a large inner courtyard that takes on a air of drama when the sun shines down on one of the walls. Take notice of the well in the courtyard. That is where they had hanging executions back when it was a prison. There are three major pieces of sculpture here that any art lover will recognize. You'll find Michelangelo's "Bacchus", Donatello's "David", and Giambologna's "Mercury"... But of course, there is much more to see! It wasn't crowded like the Accademia or the Ufizzi, and I guess that's a good thing, but it also means there are a lot of people missing out on some wonderful art! Don't be one of them!

joe j.

Yelp

Amazing museum. Hidden gems inside. Impressive sculptures missing from the Uffizi gallery. Upstairs in the chapel is a Michaelangelo crusifix. Made my trip! - bad hours and staff is rude.

Brooks A.

Yelp

While a trademark site to pass by when walking through the heart of Florence, inside the fort itself somehow manages to pull off an unassuming flavor. This quickly goes away when you realize two of the West's most important sculptures, Donatello's and Verrochio's "David" respectively, await passersby inside its 750-year old walls. The Bargello, like much of Florence's sites, manages to offer some of the Western World's most instructive, recognized art through a medium that's reserved and open to anyone who happens to pass by. Also, if you're a fan of the anthropology of medieval life, you'll be pleasantly surprised to find that each of the palace's ancillary rooms showcases artifacts from its medieval origins, from teacups to fine porcelain to battle gear of its its middle age roots.

Ralph K.

Yelp

This is a beautiful, compact museum. If you love sculpture, I imagine this would be a fantastic spot to visit. Gorgeous old building, and not overrun with tourists.

Nynj S.

Yelp

This is well worth the price of admission for its lavishly decorated rooms and art treasures. It's also a pleasure that it is not crowded and you do not need advanced tickets

Zarb P.

Yelp

Ordered a pizza which was at best store bought freezer quality. Come here for a drink the location is great and go eat anywhere else.

16 Best Things to Do in Florence

Bargello Museum - Museum Review | Condé Nast Traveler

10 Best Museums in Florence | Condé Nast Traveler