Strozzi Palace: A Timeless Masterpiece of Renaissance Architecture

What’s Strozzi Palace?

Strozzi Palace in Florence, Italy, is a stunning Renaissance palace built for a wealthy banker in the 15th century. Designed by the renowned architect Benedetto da Maiano, its facade boasts large windows and a distinctive cornice, while its interior features elegant rooms adorned with frescoes and stuccoes by famous artists. Today, Strozzi Palace is a cultural center hosting temporary exhibitions, concerts, and other events throughout the year. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in art, architecture, and history, and a perfect example of the exquisite beauty and creativity of the Renaissance era.

Knowledge Graph | Strozzi Palace

Location: Piazza degli Strozzi, Florence, Italy

Official name: Palazzo Strozzi

Architect: Benedetto da Maiano

Built for: Filippo Strozzi the Elder, a wealthy Florentine banker

Construction started: 1489

Style: Renaissance

Features: Rusticated stone facade, large windows, cornice with modillions, elegant interior courtyard, monumental staircase, frescoes and stuccoes by famous artists

Notable Past Exhibitions: Picasso, Caravaggio, Bronzino, and Marina Abramović

Ownership: The Strozzi family until 1937, then passed to the Italian state

Plan Your Visit to Strozzi Palace

Monday - Wednesday, Friday - Sunday: 10 AM - 8 PM

Thursday: 10 AM - 11 PM

Last Admission: One hour before closing

Best Time to Visit

During peak season (June - August), you can enjoy the warm weather and long days. However, it is also the busiest time, with more crowds and longer queues at popular exhibitions.

Alternatively, visiting during the shoulder seasons, such as spring (March to May) or fall (September to November), can be a great option. The weather is usually mild and pleasant, and there are generally fewer crowds than during peak season.

Address: Piazza degli Strozzi, 50123 Florence, Italy.

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Getting There

Public Transportation: Visitors can take the bus or tram to reach the palace. The Santa Maria Novella railway station is the closest stop, and from there, you can take a short walk to the palace.

Taxi: Taxis are also available throughout the city, and you can hail one on the street or book one through a ride-hailing app.

Car: If you're driving to the palace, there are several parking options nearby, including paid parking garages and street parking.

Photography: Photography is allowed throughout the palace, but flash photography and the use of tripods or selfie sticks is prohibited.
Food and Drink: Food and drink are not allowed in the exhibition areas, but visitors can enjoy refreshments and meals at the palace's café.
Smoking: Smoking is strictly prohibited within the palace and its courtyards.
Pets: With the exception of guide dogs, pets are not allowed inside the palace.
Security Checks: For security reasons, all visitors may be subject to bag checks and metal detector screenings before entering the palace.
Respectful Behavior: Visitors are expected to respect the palace's exhibits, staff, and other visitors by refraining from disruptive or disrespectful behavior.

Buy tickets online in advance to avoid long queues at the entrance.
Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking on uneven surfaces.
Plan your visit according to the exhibition schedule, and give yourself ample time to explore the complex.
Don't miss the Strozzina Contemporary Art Space, which features cutting-edge exhibitions.
Take a break at the on-site café and enjoy a coffee or snack while admiring the beautiful surroundings.
Remember to bring a camera as there are many photo opportunities in the palace complex.
Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the history and architecture of the palace complex.

Things to do at Strozzi Palace

Explore the Palace's Courtyard

Strozzi Palace is a magnificent Renaissance palace that has a beautiful courtyard with an impressive fountain at its center. Take a leisurely stroll through the courtyard and admire the grandeur of the building's architecture.

Visit the Museum of Fondazione Strozzi

The Strozzi Palace is home to the Fondazione Strozzi Museum, which has a rotating selection of contemporary art exhibits. The museum often features the works of prominent artists from around the world, so make sure to check out their schedule before you visit.

Admire the Renaissance Architecture

Strozzi Palace was designed by the famous architect Benedetto da Maiano and completed in the 16th century. It is a prime example of Renaissance architecture in Florence, and you can see its grandeur and elegance from the outside as well.

Courtyard's Concerts and Events

Strozzi Palace often hosts concerts, plays, and other cultural events in its courtyard, especially during the summer months. Keep an eye out for any upcoming performances or events that may interest you.

Attend a Lecture or Workshop

The Fondazione Strozzi Museum also offers lectures and workshops on a range of topics related to contemporary art and culture. These events are usually held in the museum's auditorium or other spaces within the Palace, so check out their schedule to see if there are any events that you'd like to attend.

Unwind at the Palace's Café

If you need a break from all the sightseeing, head to the Palace's café for a quick coffee or snack. The café is located in the courtyard and offers a tranquil atmosphere where you can rest and recharge before continuing your exploration of Florence.

History of Strozzi Palace

The Strozzi Palace is a magnificent Renaissance palace located in the heart of Florence, Italy. It was commissioned by the powerful Strozzi family, one of the wealthiest and most influential families in Renaissance Florence, in the 15th century. The construction of the palace took almost two decades, with work starting in 1489 and being completed in 1504.

The palace was designed by the renowned Florentine architect Benedetto da Maiano, and features a stunning blend of Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles. Over the years, the palace has been home to many illustrious Florentine families, and has played host to several important historical events.

During the 16th century, the palace was acquired by the powerful Medici family, who used it as a venue for lavish parties and important political meetings. Today, the Strozzi Palace is a popular tourist attraction, hosting a range of exciting cultural events and exhibitions throughout the year.

Who Built Strozzi Palace?

The Strozzi Palace in Florence was commissioned by the wealthy Strozzi family and built between 1489 and 1538. The architect behind this masterpiece was Benedetto da Maiano, a well-known Florentine architect and sculptor of the Renaissance period. He was also responsible for the construction of the marble façade of the Basilica di Santa Maria Novella in Florence.

Da Maiano's design for the Strozzi Palace was influenced by the classicism of the ancient Roman architecture, evident in the rusticated stone used on the ground floor and smooth stone used for the upper levels. The palace has a rectangular shape and features a spacious courtyard, a grand entrance, and elegant window designs.

Architecture of Strozzi Palace

Strozzi Palace is a stellar testament of Renaissance architecture. Built between 1489 and 1538 by two different architects, it features elements such as rusticated stonework, classical columns, and pilasters. The palace is made up of three stories, each one exhibiting a different level of decorative detail. The ground floor has plain stone-work, the piano nobile has decorative elements, and the top floor has more modest embellishments. The palace was designed to convey the power and prestige of the Strozzi family, who were one of the wealthiest families in Florence at the time.

Frequently Asked Questions about Strozzi Palace

What is the history behind Strozzi Palace?

Strozzi Palace has a rich history dating back to the 15th century. It was built by the wealthy Strozzi family, who were one of the most powerful and influential families in Florence during the Renaissance.

What is the architectural style of Strozzi Palace?

Strozzi Palace is an excellent example of Renaissance architecture. It features a grand courtyard, elegant arcades, and beautifully decorated facades.

What can I see inside Strozzi Palace?

Inside Strozzi Palace, you'll find a range of exhibitions showcasing contemporary art and culture. There are also stunning frescoes and decorations on the ceilings and walls.

Is Strozzi Palace wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Strozzi Palace is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators installed throughout the building.

How long does it take to tour Strozzi Palace?

You can spend anywhere from an hour to a full day at Strozzi Palace, depending on your interests and how much time you have.

Are there guided tours of Strozzi Palace available?

Yes, guided tours are available, and they are highly recommended to gain a better understanding of the history and significance of the Palace.

Is photography allowed inside Strozzi Palace?

Yes, photography is allowed inside the Palace, but without a flash or tripod.

Is there a gift shop at Strozzi Palace?

Yes, there is a gift shop located inside Strozzi Palace where you can purchase souvenirs, books, and other items related to the exhibitions and history of the Palace.

Can I purchase tickets to Strozzi Palace in advance?

Yes, you can purchase tickets to Strozzi Palace in advance online at Florence Tickets.