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Medici Villa of Cerreto Guidi: A Window into Renaissance Tuscany

Explore the opulent Medici Villa of Cerreto Guidi, a UNESCO site with Renaissance art, hunting history, and panoramic Tuscan views.

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The Medici Villa of Cerreto Guidi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands as a testament to the power and refined tastes of the Medici family. Built in the mid-16th century by Cosimo I de' Medici, the villa served as a hunting lodge and strategic outpost. Today, it houses the Historical Museum of Hunting and the Territory, offering visitors a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Medici and the region's history.

A brief summary to Medici Villa of Cerreto Guidi and the Museum of Hunting and the Territory

  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the cobblestone streets and climbing the villa's unique staircases.
  • Check the official website for updated opening hours and any special events or exhibitions.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through the charming town of Cerreto Guidi to experience the local atmosphere.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Empoli, take the Line 49 bus towards Cerreto Guidi. The bus ride takes approximately 23 minutes. Get off at the 'Cerreto Guidi Via Piave' or 'Mostagnana' stop, both are a short walk to the villa. Bus tickets can be purchased via the 'at bus' app or using contactless payment on board. A single bus ticket costs around €2.

  • Taxi

    From Empoli, a taxi ride to the Medici Villa of Cerreto Guidi takes approximately 10 minutes and costs between €20-€25. Taxi services are available in Empoli, or you can use ride-sharing apps. Be aware that taxi availability may be limited, so it's best to book in advance.

  • Walking

    From the center of Cerreto Guidi, the Medici Villa is easily accessible on foot. Follow the signs towards the villa, which is located on a hill in the center of town. The walk is uphill and takes approximately 10-15 minutes, offering scenic views of the surrounding area.

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Discover more about Medici Villa of Cerreto Guidi and the Museum of Hunting and the Territory

Perched atop a hill in the heart of Cerreto Guidi, the Medici Villa dominates the landscape with its imposing presence and distinctive architecture. Commissioned by Duke Cosimo I de' Medici in 1556, the villa was designed as a hunting residence and a symbol of Medici control over the surrounding territory. The villa's design is attributed to Bernardo Buontalenti, featuring a unique series of brick, zig-zag stairs known as the "Medici Bridges" that lead to the entrance. Inside the villa, visitors can explore lavishly decorated rooms adorned with portraits of the Medici family, exquisite furnishings from various eras, and Medici tapestries. The villa also houses the Historical Museum of Hunting and the Territory, showcasing a collection of hunting weapons and equipment dating from the 17th to 19th centuries. The museum illustrates the historical evolution of hunting, from a survival skill to a sport and social activity. The villa's connection to the surrounding marshland is explored through maps and models, highlighting the importance of the Fucecchio Marsh as a hunting ground for the Medici. The villa also holds a darker history; it was the site of Isabella de' Medici's tragic death in 1576, where she was allegedly strangled by her husband. Some say her ghost still roams the villa seeking peace. Beyond the villa's walls, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Apennine mountains and the Fucecchio Marsh from the terrace. The villa's gardens, though dating back to the 19th century, offer a tranquil escape. A visit to the Medici Villa of Cerreto Guidi offers a captivating journey into the world of the Medici, Renaissance art, and the history of the Tuscan landscape.

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