| Bargello National Museum : Description |  |
Founded in 1589, this Museum is of fundamental importance owing to its priceless collection of Tuscan Renaissance sculptures, and very rich collection of antique objects and arms. From the Vestibule one enters the very large Hall, which houses Michelangelo's early works; Drunken Bacchus (1499), a marble of the Madonna with Child and St Giovannino (1504), David or Apollino (circa 1531), a Bust of Brutus (1504); as well as sculptures by Daniele da Volterra, Jacopo Sansovino, Giambologna, Ammannati, Bandinelli, Bernini, and a Bust of Cosimo I by Benvenuto Cellini. |
| Bargello National Museum : History | |
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Begun in 1255, as the Residence of the Captain of the People, it was extended in later years and completed around the middle of the 14th century. The tower, known as the "Volognana", incorporated in the palace, was built in 1255. From 1261 it was the seat of the Podestà and, from 1502, of the Council of Justice. In 1574 the Bargello (Captain of Justice) established himself there and during this period it was turned into a grim prison with torture and execution chambers.
After restoration by Francesco Mazzei in 1865 the Palace was restored to its former splendour and is now considered a fine example of Florentine Gothic architecture. Inside, in the suggestive and picturesque asymmetrical courtyard, is an original staircase by Neri di Fioravanti (1367), leading to the elegant arched loggia on the first floor. Today the Palace houses the Bargello National Museum, bringing together many important Renaissance sculptures, including masterpieces by Donatello, Luca della Robbia, Verrocchio, Michelangelo and Cellini. The museum was subsequently enriched with splendid collections of bronzes, majolica, waxes, enamels, medals, seals, ivories, amber, tapestries, furniture and textiles from the Medici collections and those of private donors. |
