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Palazzo Vecchio |
Palazzo Vecchio The design of the Palazzo Vecchio, also known as Palazzo della Signoria, is attributed to Arnolfo di Cambio who began work on the Palazzo in 1299. In 1314 it became the residence of the "Priori" during their tenure of office. The Palazzo was enlarged in 1343 for the Duke of Athens; in 1495 by Simone del Pollaiolo, called "il Cronaca", who built the Salone dei Cinquecento; and once again in 1511. The interior was modified by Vasari between 1540 and 1543, and by Buontalenti between 1588 and 1592. The 14th century courtyard, graced with the fountain with the "putto", a copy of Verrocchio's original, was later modified by Michelozzo. The Loggia della Signoria or "dei Lanzi" overlooks the square; here there are several important statues including "Perseus" by Cellini and the "Rape of the Sabine Women" by Giambologna. Works by important 20th century artists are housed in the Raccolta d'Arte Contemporanea A. della Ragione, which is also located in Piazza della Signoria. |