Museum de’ Medici
A museum dedicated to the history of the Medici family to preserve their memory
The Museum de’ Medici is located in Florence, housed in one of the best-known historic buildings: the Rotonda Brunelleschi, designed in the 1530s by Filippo Brunelleschi.
The museum was created on the occasion of the 500th anniversary of Cosimo I and Caterina de' Medici, with the aim of preserving and handing down the memory of the Medici family.
Through the display of original works of art, historical documents and mostly never seen relics - because they come from prestigious private collections - the museum showcases the history of the Medici family and collaborates with leading Florentine and Italian cultural institutions.
The space boasts an important collection of paintings, sculptures and medals ranging from the 15th to the 18th century, works by Suttermans, Bronzino, Ligozzi, Foggini, Stradano and others. There is also a valuable library of historical volumes and engravings including the world's largest collection of Medici burin portraits.
Curiosities include a cast of the skull of Gian Gastone, the last Grand Duke of the Family of Medici, made by the University of Florence especially for the museum and a hologram reproducing the now-lost Medici crowns.
Faithful reproductions of dresses, models, historical relics, models and multimedia installations complete the exhibit.
