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Vasari Corridor’s history in detail
Commissioned by Cosimo I de' Medici
Year: 1565
The Vasari Corridor was created as a private passageway for the Medici family, allowing them to travel from the Uffizi Gallery, where they conducted state business, to their residence at the Palazzo Pitti. Designed by Giorgio Vasari, the corridor was constructed to be a hidden and secure route. The walkway extends over the Ponte Vecchio and offers stunning views of Florence, including its iconic landmarks like Piazza della Signoria and the Palazzo Vecchio. A distinctive feature was its arrangement through the Ponte Vecchio, where the Medici altered the bridge's shops to allow for the passageway.
Creation of the self-portrait collection
Year: 1664
Cardinal Leopoldo de’ Medici, a prominent member of the Medici family, began the installation of self-portraits in the Vasari Corridor with the aim of creating one of the largest and most significant collections of its kind in the world. This collection grew over time, with more than 200 self-portraits.
The end of the Medici family
Year: 1737
The Medici family’s rule in Florence ended in 1737, with the death of Anna Maria Luisa de' Medici, the last member of the family. However, the family’s legacy lived on through their art and the collection of treasures they bequeathed to the city, ensuring that their cultural and artistic influence remained. The Vasari Corridor continued to function as a private passageway but gradually began to attract more attention from the public as Florence’s role as a cultural center grew.
Hitler’s visit and the corridor’s modifications
Year: 1938
During Adolf Hitler's visit to Italy, the Vasari Corridor was altered for his convenience.
It is believed that some of the windows in the Vasari Corridor were specially enlarged to offer Hitler an impressive view of the city, reflecting his connection to Mussolini's regime.
Bombing and damage to the corridor
Year: 1993
In 1993, the Vasari Corridor became a casualty of the political turbulence of the time when it was damaged during a bombing aimed at the Uffizi Gallery. The bombing was carried out by the Mafia, with the intention of striking at the cultural heart of Florence. The explosion caused significant damage to the corridor and surrounding buildings, but thanks to careful restoration work, much of the corridor was preserved. During this restoration, experts worked to maintain the corridor’s historical integrity while repairing the damages caused by the bombing.
Closed to the public
Year: 2016
The Vasari Corridor was temporarily closed to the public for safety reasons and extensive restoration work. The closure was necessary to preserve the corridor’s architectural integrity, which had been affected by time, environmental factors, and previous damage. The restoration focused on ensuring the safety of both the structure and the valuable art collection housed within, including its frescoes and ceilings.
Reopening to the public
Year: 2024
After a long period of restoration and improvements, the Vasari Corridor officially reopened to the public in 2024. The restoration introduced several key improvements, including enhanced safety features, better lighting, accessible pathways, and upgraded security systems.
Frequently asked questions about the history of the Vasari Corridor
Why was the Vasari Corridor built?
The Vasari Corridor was commissioned by Grand Duke Francesco I de' Medici in 1565. It was designed to connect the Uffizi Gallery to the Palazzo Pitti, allowing the ruling Medici family to move safely and privately between their offices and residence, without the need to walk through the streets of Florence.
Who designed the Vasari Corridor?
The corridor was designed by Giorgio Vasari, a renowned architect, painter, and historian who was a close advisor to the Medici family and was responsible for many significant architectural projects in Florence.
Why did the Medici family need a private corridor?
The Medici family, rulers and patrons of the arts in Florence, required a secure, private route between the Uffizi Gallery and the Palazzo Pitti. The corridor provided protection and privacy, as well as a way to transport artworks and important documents without exposing them to the public.
Was the Vasari Corridor ever closed to the public?
Yes, the corridor was closed to the public in 2016 for restoration work. The corridor reopened in 2024, offering visitors a more enhanced and safe experience while showcasing its rich history and artwork.
What artworks can I see in the Vasari Corridor today?
The Vasari Corridor is adorned with about 30 ancient sculptures and a collection of Greek and Roman inscriptions that highlight its classical influences. Additionally, there is a space dedicated to 16th-century frescoes created under the direction of Giorgio Vasari himself.
How long is the Vasari Corridor?
The Vasari Corridor stretches for approximately 1 kilometer (0.6 miles), running above the city streets and connecting the Uffizi Gallery to the Palazzo Pitti. The passageway also passes through the Ponte Vecchio.