This building has served a purpose since 1250, when it was the Palazzo del Popolo. The Medici deemed this the location of the chief of police and changed the name in the 16th century to what it is stilled called today. It wasn't until 1865 that this became a museum. Great works of art representing numerous artists include a Scandinavian chess set by Giambologna, Donatello's "San Giorgio", and Michelangelo's "Bacco." It is in this museum that guests will find the panels created by Ghiberti and Brunelleschi, which the created while competing to complete the Baptistery's north doors.

Founded in 1581, this museum provides a wide array of Renaissance art from the 14th to the 18th centuries. Guests must allot themselves a good deal of time to view as much as possible. Among the works on exhibit are Botticelli's "Primavera," Filippo Lippi's "Madonna and Child with Two Angels," and "Battle of San Romano" by Uccello. To avoid the large crowds, it is recommended to go around lunchtime. Tour reservations are recommended.

In 1563, this building housed the first school that specialized in teaching the methods of art and sculpture. The collection of artwork was established in 1784 to serve as examples for the students to follow. Today, the works of art are a fascination among thousands of locals and travelers alike. Michelangelo's "David" is located here, as are his "Quattro" and "Prigioni" sculptures.

PALAZZO TORRIGIANI. Mounted animals, dissected humans, and wax representations of severed human limbs are on display in this zoology museum. Many of the objects date as far back as the late 1700's. Visitors are able to see the hippopotamus that was given to Grand Duke Pietro Leopoldo and the Count of Turin's sofa covered in elephant-skin. An astronomical observatory in honor of Galileo exhibits a variety of frescoes and sculptures that focus on the advance of scientific knowledge during the Renaissance period.

An atypical museum in Florence featuring fascinating Etruscan, Egyptian, and Greek art. The displays provide a wealth of information concerning the importance and evolution of these works in respect to their cultures. Tombs (with mummies), hieroglyphics, and statues make up the assortment of Egyptian art. Greek pottery is on display on the second floor. The interesting Etruscan pieces include decorated urns, sculptures, and jewelry.