Medici Chapels

travel wonder in Florence, Italy

Why the

Medici Chapels

in Florence

are special

Some of Michelangelo's greatest sculptural triumphs reside in the New Sacristy room of the Medici Chapels in the Basilica of San Lorenzo in Florence.

Tips & insights on the

Medici Chapels

The highlight is Lorenzo's tomb. It is adorned with a pair of reclining figures named Dusk and Dawn and the seated likeness of Lorenzo above them. See photo.

Directly across the room is a similar trio of sculptures decorating the sarcophagus of Giuliano. The reclining figures are named Night and Day. Also in this room is one of Michelangelo's acclaimed Madonna & Child creations.

The other (and much larger) main part of the Medici Chapels is called the Princes' Chapel. It contains the remains of Medicean grand dukes. Some critics say its domed octagonal room is ostentatiously embellished, to the point of being off-putting. Whatever the case, it's certainly not in the same league as Michelangelo's magnificent New Sacristy room, so spend most of your time in the latter space.

The Medici Chapels are but a small section of the large Basilica of San Lorenzo, formerly the parish church of the Medici family. Interestingly, while the basilica's interior is opulently decorated, its front exterior facade has remained austerely bare (like a crude blank wall) for centuries.

Avoid long lines (and possible sell outs) for the Medici Chapels by booking advance time-specific reservations from the museum or on the internet. And, remember that the ticket entrance is not at the basilica's main entrance, but a hiking distance away from it.

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What every visitor should know.

Italian cuisine guide

Vatican City

Note: Its wonders are not listed in my Italy Guide. Even though the Vatican lies within Rome, it is not part of it or Italy. It's an independent nation. Click to see its gold, silver and bronze medals,

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