Vasari Corridor
Vasari Corridor has hidden treasures of Florence. As you pass by priceless artwork, awe-inspiring vistas, and even mysterious underground chambers. The Uffizi Gallery in Florence, Italy is home to some of the world’s greatest works of art. From Renaissance masterpieces by Michelangelo, Raphael and Leonardo da Vinci to modern artworks by Botticelli, Titian and Caravaggio, Uffizi’s collections are renowned around the world. But one of its most famous attractions is the Vasari Corridor, a unique passageway built by Giorgio Vasari in the 16th century.
In this article, we take an in-depth look at this remarkable structure. Explore why the Vasari Corridor is such an important part of Uffizi’s history.
Vasari Corridor
Exploring the Vasari Corridor: The Uffizi Gallery's Secret Passage
(This article is written by a team of locals that love Florence and Art! )
Imagine walking through the halls of one of the world's most famous art museums and being able to view the paintings from up close. Now imagine being able to do that without having to elbow your way through the crowds. That's what you can experience if you visit the Vasari Corridor, a secret passage that connects the Uffizi Gallery to the Palazzo Vecchio.
“A visit to a museum is a search for beauty, truth, and meaning in our lives. Go to museums as often as you can.”
– Maira Kalman
Vasari Corridor
The establishment of the Vasari Corridor by Giorgio Vasari took place in the year 1564 within a short span of five months. The Vasari Corridor has a length of one kilometre and it links the Pitti Palace to the Uffizi Gallery. It is constructed as a little museum detached from the Uffizi Gallery. The arrival gate is on the first floor behind an overlooked door within the Uffizi Gallery. The tourists are not even aware of the fact that the treasure lies behind the unmarked door.
Once someone arrives at the Vasari Corridor, it gives a completely different vibe, it seems as if the person is on a different dimension as the atmosphere does not appear to be real, and is calm and radically unlike the rest of the Gallery. Masterpieces are displayed as per the guidelines issued by a former director in the year 1973. The works displayed through the Corridor's walls mainly belong to the 16th and 17th centuries. The personal collection of self-portraits and artists including masterpieces from Chagall to Andrea Sel Sarto.
A part of the paintings and portraits are not displayed due to a lack of space on the walls of the Vasari corridor. The most impressive fact about Vasari Corridor along with the wonderful pieces of art that are displayed is the privileged and elevated position as it provides you with the opportunity to go through the most magnificent spot of the city centre of Florence. You can see the people walking by through the small round shape windows, the city centre and the river Arno. This was one of the initial reasons behind the building of the Corridor: so that people can move safely and freely to Palazzo Vecchio, the seat of the government and have a look at the people without being noticed by them.
The main position of the Vasari Corridor that goes over the Ponte Vecchio presents a wonderful view. An order was given by Benito Mussolini, in the year 1939, to enlarge the small windows of the Corridor so that one can enjoy the beautiful scenic view of Ponte Santa Trinita and Arno. After one crosses the Arno, then one gets a panoramic sight of the Church located at Santa Felicita.
If you walk towards the left, then comes the Pitti Palace, a window of large size. This is the place from where the Holy Mass was attended by the Medici from a privileged and strategic point of view. To construct the Vasari Corridor, the medieval towers established down its way were crossed. The owners of the respective towers were compelled to give their consent for the passageway down their properties. Everyone gave their consent, it was only the Mannelli family that opposed giving consent.
History Behind The Vasari Corridor
The Vasari Corridor is a remarkable architectural feat crafted by renowned artist Giorgio Vasari in only five months in 1564. It was built to link the Pitti Palace, residence of the Grand Duke, with the Uffizi Gallery, where he worked.
Following the course of the Arno river, this covered passageway stretches almost a kilometer. Starting from the West Corridor of the Uffizi Gallery. Rising up on huge arches and crossing the Ponte Vecchio. The structure stands as an impressive testament to Vasari’s skill and ambition.
“A man who has not been in Italy, is always conscious of an inferiority, from his not having seen what it is expected a man should see.”
-Samuel Johnson
The corridor is widely thought to have been used by Medici members until they lost power in 1737. It lay unused for some time until the 19th century when it was reopened as a public passageway. Since then, many renovations have taken place and the corridor has become an important part of the Uffizi Gallery’s tour route.
Accessing the Vasari Corridor
To access the corridor, make sure you book your ticket in advance and arrive early at the museum. Once you've gone through admissions, make your way to the upper floor of the gallery and look for a door that's painted red - that's your signal that you've reached your destination!
Once you enter, have fun marveling at the rows and columns of beautiful paintings. Don't forget to take photos for posterity; after all, who knows when you'll be able to explore this secret passageway again! And above all, enjoy your visit; this hidden gem has much more to offer than meets the eye!
Discovering the Vasari Corridor
As you step into the Vasari Corridor, the heavy door closes behind you with a thud, muffling the sound of the tourists and street vendors just outside. You're now in a secret passage that links the Uffizi Gallery with the Palazzo Vecchio.
The corridor is narrow and dark, with just enough room for a person to walk through. The walls are lined with paintings, including works by Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci and Botticelli. It's a real privilege to be able to see them up close like this.
Vasari Corridor has hidden treasures of Florence as you pass by priceless artwork, awe-inspiring vistas, and even mysterious underground chambers. So if you ever find yourself in Firenze, make sure to embark on this one-of-a-kind journey through the centuries.
Touring the Vasari Corridor
Exploring the Vasari Corridor is a great experience. The walk itself is about 1.5 km long and is lined with art from some of the most famous Renaissance painters, including some of Michelangelo’s work.
As you walk, you get to see how the corridor has been renovated and adapted for different purposes over the centuries, such as a storage area for books or more recently as an archive and exhibition space.
The tour also takes you over the famous Ponte Vecchio bridge and to Vasari’s frescoes before heading back to the Uffizi Gallery. It's definitely worth your time since it gives you stunning views of Florence, along with an insight into one of the city's most fascinating stories.
How to Book a Visit to the Vasari Corridor?
The Vasari Corridor is a special place in Florence that you can visit with a professional guide. You have to book a tour to visit the Vasari Corridor. We at Trip Advisors offer tours of the Vasari Corridor at a special price. You can also book a tour that includes the Uffizi Gallery.
Opening & reopening of Vasari Corridor:
The Vasari Corridor is not currently open to visitors. It was closed in 2016 for security reasons and has been undergoing renovation, maintenance, and refurbishment work since then. The Vasari Corridor is scheduled to reopen in March 2023.
A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity awaits all those who visit after its reopening!
Vasari Corridor tour &Tickets?
Enjoy the guided tour of the enclosed passageway that links the Palazzo Pitti with the Palazzo Vecchio, on the opposite side of the river which passes through the Uffizi Gallery and over the Ponte Vecchio. The entrance ticket to the Vasari Corridor permits one to get access to one of the most exclusive museums in the world. You have to step into the Vasari Corridor through the Corridor on the West of the Uffizi.
How to reach the Vasari Corridor:
On foot: It's just around a walking distance of 10 minutes from the station, down the historic city centre.
Train: Santa Maria Novella train station
Car: Santa Maria Novella train parking place
Bus: Take the VOLA IN Bus to the Santa Maria Novella station
You will get the honour of strolling through the passage which follows the footmark of the “Prince’s itinerary”. The commission of the establishment of the Vasari Corridor was done on the wedding occasion of Joan and Francis I’s marriage, it was established to gift Florence a gem. The Grand Duke desired to move freely from his residence to the government Palace since passing along the roads could be dirty and dangerous.
The tourists will be mesmerized by the ambience as he or she steps into the Vasari Corridor. The royal corridor has an awesome collection of round windows, paintings and magical sights above the hills, the churches and the Palaces of Florence. You will be awestruck to see the masterpieces like self-portraits, the overseas artists belonging to the 20th century.
A direct experience with artists who are not found in any other museum all across the globe, the Vasari tour will leave an indelible mark in the hearts of tourists forever. Big umbrellas are restricted inside the Uffizi Gallery. The tourists are instructed to keep the umbrellas in the locker of the museum before getting into the Gallery. Tourists can get small umbrellas for their convenience.
Is the Vasari Corridor open to the public?
Currently, the Corridor is open. It was not open to tourists in 2016 due to security reasons and was under renovation process, refurbishment and maintenance. It was again reopened in the year 2022. You can visit the Vasari Corridor only by arranging for an exclusive tour with a professional tour guide and of course an assistant of the museum.
The Vasari Corridor has a wonderful panoramic view and stands as a hidden treasure in Florence. People visit a lot of places but this tour will open in front of you not only the treasures of art but also a galore of surprises that are still unknown and unseen to you. Italy is a big country and has beautiful cities to explore, but this Vasari Corridor in Florence has something unique in itself, a museum that goes beyond all other museums in the world in terms of idea and creativity.
It is built in such a way that allows you not only to enjoy the inside masterpieces but enjoy the views of nature as well. It gives a different kind of satisfaction, and mental peace and separates the rest of the world. A world that is free from stress and presents in front of you the treasures of the world and you will understand that there are lots of things in this globe which are worthy of seeing, enjoying and cherishing.
Conclusion
If you're an art lover and you're visiting Florence, be sure to add the Vasari Corridor to your list of things to see. It offers a unique perspective on some of the city's most famous landmarks. After taking in all that this amazing structure has to offer, visitors will understand why the Vasari Corridor is one of Uffizi’s crown jewels.
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FAQs
Top 20 Queries of Travellers
Q1. How do I get to the Uffizi Gallery?
The easiest way to reach the Uffizi Gallery is by bus or taxi from the nearby Santa Maria Novella train station. Alternatively, you can walk from downtown Florence in around 20 minutes.
Q2. How do I get to the Vasari Corridor?
The Vasari Corridor is not open to the public and cannot be accessed directly. However, it can be viewed through an exhibition space located in Palazzo Vecchio (the Old Palace).
Q3. What are the opening hours for the Uffizi Gallery?
The Uffizi Gallery is usually open from 8:15 a.m. to 6:50 p.m. Tuesday to Sunday, and on Monday it is open until 1:50 p.m.
Q4. What are the opening hours for the Vasari Corridor?
The Vasari Corridor does not have regular opening hours as it is not open to the public.
Q5. How much does it cost to enter the Uffizi Gallery?
Admission costs around €18.00 per person, but there are discounts available for students and seniors with valid identification cards.
Q6. What can I see at the Uffizi Gallery?
The Uffizi Gallery is home to many masterpieces from the Renaissance era, including works by artists such as Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci. In addition, you will find collections of Greek and Roman sculptures, ancient coins and medals, and more.
Q7. What can I see at the Vasari Corridor?
The Vasari Corridor is not open to visitors but can be viewed through an exhibition space located in Palazzo Vecchio (the Old Palace). This exhibition gives visitors a glimpse into the secret passages used by members of the Medici family in the 16th century.
Q8. Is there a dress code for the Uffizi Gallery?
There is no specific dress code for the Uffizi Gallery, however visitors are asked to wear clothing that is appropriate and respectful while inside the museum.
Q9. Can I take photos inside the Uffizi Gallery?
Yes, visitors are allowed to take photographs but without flash photography or tripods/monopods inside of the galleries of the Uffizi.
Q10. Are there guided tours of the Uffizi Gallery available?
Yes, there are guided tours available for a fee which provide visitors with an in-depth look at some of the most iconic works housed in the museum.
Q11. Is there a café in the Uffizi Gallery?
Yes, visitors can find a café at the entrance of the museum that offers light snacks and refreshments.
Q12. Are there audio guides available for the Uffizi Gallery?
Yes, visitors can rent audio guides at the information desk of the museum for a fee. The audio guide provides detailed commentary on many of the works housed in the Uffizi Gallery.
Q13. Are there any special offerings at the Uffizi Gallery?
Yes, visitors can enjoy educational activities such as talks, workshops and art classes on topics ranging from Renaissance art to modern sculpture. In addition, the museum offers visits by guided tours in several languages and an interactive exhibition that allows visitors to explore the history of Florence and its monuments in a more immersive way.
Q14. Are there any restrictions for the Uffizi Gallery?
Yes, visitors are prohibited from bringing food and beverages into the museum and no pets are allowed inside. In addition, large bags must be checked in a locker before entry and photography is not permitted in certain areas of the museum.
Q15. Is there a gift shop at the Uffizi Gallery?
Yes, visitors to the Uffizi can find a gift shop located at the entrance of the museum where they can purchase souvenirs and other items related to their visit.
Q16. Are there any other attractions near the Vasari Corridor?
Yes, visitors can explore Palazzo Vecchio where they can view some of Giorgio Vasari's most iconic works as well as visit numerous other galleries and museums located nearby such as Museo Galileo and Museo dell'Opera del Duomo.
Q17. Is it possible to visit both the Uffizi Gallery and the Vasari Corridor in one day?
Yes, it is possible to visit both sites in one day if you plan your trip carefully.
Q18. Are there any additional services available for visitors to the Uffizi Gallery?
Yes, visitors can take advantage of a range of services including audio guides, guided tours and educational activities at an additional fee. There is also a restaurant on site where visitors can enjoy refreshments before or after their visit. Additionally, the museum offers coat check, wheelchair rental and other useful amenities for those with special needs.
Q19. How do I book a ticket for the Uffizi Gallery?
Tickets for the Uffizi Gallery can be purchased online or at the ticket office located near the entrance of the museum. It is recommended to book tickets in advance as they may be scarce during peak season or holidays.
Q20. How do I book a ticket for the Vasari Corridor?
Visitors can obtain free tickets at Palazzo Vecchio's main ticket office before entering its exhibition space to view the corridor.
Q21. Are there any restrictions on what I can bring into the Uffizi Gallery?
Yes, for security reasons, visitors are not allowed to bring large bags or backpacks inside the museum. Additionally, food and drinks are prohibited from being brought in as well as any photography equipment with a flash or tripod. It is recommended that visitors check the museum's website before their visit to ensure they comply with the guidelines and restrictions in place.
Q22. Is there any way to skip the line at the Uffizi Gallery?
Yes, visitors can purchase a Fast Track ticket which allows them to bypass the queues outside the museum and gain immediate access to its galleries. This service is subject to availability but it is recommended that tickets be booked in advance to avoid disappointment.