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Designed by Arnolfo di Cambio and completed in 1310, Arnolfo Tower is a prominent part of the larger Palazzo Vecchio complex. It served as a defensive system and lookout post to protect Florence against military attacks.
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Discover Palazzo Vecchio's Arnolfo Tower
Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction.
Bypass the crowds and scale Arnolfo Tower, towering above Palazzo Vecchio.
- From Palazzo Vecchio’s third floor, climb over 230 steps along embattlements and ancient passages to reach the top of this lookout tower.
- At 95 meters above ground, soak in skyline panoramas, stretching from Palazzo Pitti and Arno River, to the rolling Tuscan hills.
- Save time with priority entry, giving you extra moments to admire the medieval stone tower’s history and Florence’s iconic sights.
Bypass the crowds and scale Arnolfo Tower, towering above Palazzo Vecchio.
- From Palazzo Vecchio’s third floor, climb over 230 steps along embattlements and ancient passages to reach the top of this lookout tower.
- At 95 meters above ground, soak in skyline panoramas, stretching from Palazzo Pitti and Arno River, to the rolling Tuscan hills.
- Save time with priority entry, giving you extra moments to admire the medieval stone tower’s history and Florence’s iconic sights.
Inclusions
- Skip-the-line entry to Arnolfo Tower
- This experience is not accessible by wheelchair/stroller, and not recommended for guests with limited mobility.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
- With just a small group of up to 14 people and fast-track entry, experience the history of Palazzo Vecchio more intimately, Florence's symbol of civic power.
- An experienced tour guide will tell you the history and meaning behind the walls of frescoes representing the elements in the private apartments.
- Put on your headsets and learn more about Michaelangelo’s sculpture, Genius of Victory, and other Renaissance art in the Hall of Five Hundred.
- Soak in the sights and scents of Piazza della Signoria from the terrace at the back of the Palazzo Vecchio.
- Select a professional guide in the language of your choice to understand the cartography murals and artifacts in the Hall of Geographical Maps.
- With just a small group of up to 14 people and fast-track entry, experience the history of Palazzo Vecchio more intimately, Florence's symbol of civic power.
- An experienced tour guide will tell you the history and meaning behind the walls of frescoes representing the elements in the private apartments.
- Put on your headsets and learn more about Michaelangelo’s sculpture, Genius of Victory, and other Renaissance art in the Hall of Five Hundred.
- Soak in the sights and scents of Piazza della Signoria from the terrace at the back of the Palazzo Vecchio.
- Select a professional guide in the language of your choice to understand the cartography murals and artifacts in the Hall of Geographical Maps.
Inclusions
- Guided tour of Palazzo Vecchio Museum
- English, Spanish, Italian, French, or German-speaking guide
- Small group of up to 14 people
- Fast-track entry
- Radio headsets for more than 6 people
Exclusions
- Tips
- Tip: Keep an eye out for the Terrace of Saturn in the Room of Elements, which features a ceiling fresco metaphorically representing Saturn.
- This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
- You may be asked to enter via the security check line on busy days.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Palazzo VecchioPalazzo Vecchio Tower
Top things to do in Florence
Why visit Arnolfo Tower?
Insight on medieval fortification
Quick facts about Palazzo Vecchio Tower
Official name
Arnolfo Tower
Address
Piazza della Signoria, Florence, Italy
Date of opening
Completed in 1310
Architect
Arnolfo di Cambio
Architectural style
Medieval
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Since 1982
Plan your visit to Arnolfo Tower
Opening hours
Location
Friday to Wednesday: 9am - 7pm
Thursday: 9am - 2pm
Last admission: 1 hour before closing time
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Palazzo Vecchio Tower is during the early morning or late afternoon. By visiting during these times, you can avoid the crowds and enjoy a more serene experience. Additionally, weekdays tend to be less crowded compared to weekends.
Palazzo Vecchio Tower is located in the heart of Florence, Italy. Specifically, it is situated in Piazza della Signoria, which is a central square in the historic center of the city. The tower is easily accessible and can be found within the Palazzo Vecchio complex, from above the second floor.
Arnolfo Tower highlights
Architectural details
Observe the intricate architectural details of the tower, from the ornate arches and decorative moldings to the finely crafted stone carvings. These details showcase the skilled craftsmanship and attention to detail of the era.
Tower's bells
Marvel at the tower's original bells, witnessing the craftsmanship and functionality of these historic instruments. Learn about their significance in marking time, announcing events, and communicating with the city's inhabitants throughout history.
Historical chambers
Step into the tower's historical chambers and explore the rich history of Florence. Discover a prison cell in the clouds — the Alberghetto, where political figures like Cosimo the Elder and Girolamo Savonarola were held.
Defensive architecture
Admire the tower's impressive embattlements, characterized by sturdy stone walls, lookout posts, crenellations, and decorative elements. The design style reflects the strategic considerations of Medieval towns.
Sweeping views
At the top, you are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Florence. Take in the picturesque sight of the city's red-tiled roofs, the winding Arno River, and the stunning landscapes that surround Florence.
Palazzo Vecchio complex
Bask in the glory of the larger Palazzo Vecchio complex, which houses the tower. Explore the town hall's grand halls, ornate salons, and hidden passages, delving into the heart of Florentine governance and history.
Artistic treasures
Discover artistic treasures within the tower, including exquisite sculptures, paintings, and decorative art. Admire the craftsmanship of renowned artists, and appreciate the fusion of art and architecture that permeates this historical landmark.
History of Arnolfo Tower
Palazzo Vecchio's watchtower, completed in 1310 and designed by architect Arnolfo di Cambio, has a rich and multifaceted history. Originally a defensive structure, it protected Florence and served as a strategic post for the ruling government.
Over the years, it also functioned as a prison and a bell tower. The solid stone walls, battlements, and intricate decorative elements showcase medieval architecture. Hidden chambers, secret passages, and lesser-known corners reveal the tower's intriguing past.
Adorned with artistic treasures such as frescoes, sculptures, and decorative artworks, the tower exemplifies Florence's cultural and artistic heritage. While not individually listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the tower is part of the Historic Centre of Florence, a designated UNESCO site.
Arnolfo Tower today
The tower holds immense importance and fame as a historic and architectural landmark. With its solid stone walls, decorative elements, and medieval charm, it continues to inspire architects and visitors alike. Today, it stands as a symbol of Italian Gothic architecture above the skyline, attracting thousands of visitors annually. Its panoramic views, cultural events, and vibrant atmosphere make it a must-visit destination, where the rich history and artistic heritage of Florence come to life.
Palazzo Vecchio historyFrequently asked questions about Palazzo Vecchio's Arnolfo Tower
Why was Arnolfo Tower built?
The tower was built as a lookout point for the city's rulers, with embattlements meant to defend Florence and its city hall from external threats.
Where can I buy Arnolfo Tower tickets?
You can purchase tickets for the Palazzo Vecchio Tower at the entrance of the Palazzo Vecchio complex or online.
Who designed the Arnolfo Tower in Florence, and when was it built?
The Palazzo Vecchio Tower was designed by the renowned architect Arnolfo di Cambio. Construction of the Palazzo Vecchio Tower was completed in 1310.
Where is the Arnolfo Tower located?
The Arnolfo Tower is located at Palazzo Vecchio in Florence, Italy, towering over the complex which is situated in the city's historic center.