Florence's Historic Vasari Corridor Reopens After Eight-Year Restoration
The 760-meter elevated passageway, built by the Medici family in 1565, is now accessible to the public for the first time, offering unique views and a connection between iconic landmarks.
- The Vasari Corridor, constructed in 1565 by Giorgio Vasari for Duke Cosimo I de’ Medici, was originally a private route linking the Palazzo Vecchio, Uffizi Gallery, and Palazzo Pitti.
- The corridor has undergone extensive renovations, including earthquake-proofing, accessibility improvements, and modern amenities, at a cost of €10 million with additional funding from private donors.
- Previously reserved for VIPs, the corridor now allows public access in small groups of 25 every 20 minutes, providing a 45-minute self-guided experience with panoramic views of Florence.
- The restoration and reopening aim to integrate the Uffizi and Palazzo Pitti collections, offering visitors a cohesive narrative of Medici-era art, culture, and power.
- The corridor’s reopening is part of a broader revitalization of the Uffizi complex, including new exhibitions and restored spaces, addressing overtourism by redistributing visitors across Florence's cultural sites.