Medici Chapel — History & Stories

Stepping into the Chapels of the Princes, I felt enveloped by marble and frescoes whispering grand family secrets. Discover the Medici legacy—and reserve your entry slot now.

Reserve Entry (€14)

Why the Medici Chapel Fascinates

From Cosimo’s tomb to Michelangelo’s Sagrestia Nova, the chapels blend dynastic pomp with Renaissance artistry. Every relief, every marble slab tells a Medici tale.

A Dynasty in Stone

Built 1520–1540 to glorify Medici rulers, the chapels showcase opulent semi-precious marble and grand tombs.

Artistic Masterpieces

Marvel at Michelangelo’s new sacristy and breathtaking stucco by Ammannati—private artistry rarely seen elsewhere.

Key Dates

  • 1520 — Construction begins under Duke Alessandro de’ Medici.
  • 1534 — Michelangelo called to design the Sagrestia Nuova.
  • 1540 — Chapel of the Princes dome completed by Buontalenti.
  • 1574 — Lorenzo II’s tomb installed with polychrome marble.
  • 18th c. — Restorations reveal original frescoes.
  • 21st c. — Advanced climate control preserves marble inlay.

Don’t Miss

Michelangelo’s Sagrestia Nuova

Spacious green marble and Michelangelo’s tomb sculptures—his final architectural masterpiece.

Chapel of the Princes Dome

Lavish inlaid stones forming a celestial canopy over Medici sarcophagi.

Cosimo & Lorenzo Tombs

Grand coffered marble tombs of family founders Cosimo I and his heir Lorenzo II.

Opulent Florentine Inlay

Rare marble varieties from across Italy shimmer in geometric patterns.

Insider Nuggets

Visit Early

First slots at 10:00 are quieter—ideal for unobstructed views of marble inlays.

Combine Nearby

Pair with Laurentian Library for a seamless Medici art itinerary.

Quick Tips

Opening Hours

Tue–Sun 10:00–17:00 (last entry 16:30); closed Mon.

Ticket Types

Entry €14 | Guided Tour €45 | Combo €60

Accessibility

Ramp entrance; vaulted interior is level-access—some adjacent stairs.

Photography

No flash; small cameras fine. Tripods require permission.

Ready to Uncover the Medici Legacy?

Secure your timed entry and step into centuries of Medici grandeur.

Book Your Ticket (€14)