Medici Tour: Three Kings and Power – Medici Palace and Basilica of San Lorenzo
Florence
Why did the Medici have themselves depicted as the Three Wise Men? Discover how they built their power through art and religion, from the Palazzo Medici to the San Lorenzo Basilica complex.
This guided walking tour in Florence suits history and art lovers interested in the Medici family, Renaissance art, and Florentine architecture.
Highlights
- Discover the Medici depicted as the Three Wise Men in the Chapel frescoed by Benozzo Gozzoli
- Explore the links between art, religion, and power during the Renaissance
- Admire the interior of Palazzo Medici and the exterior of the San Lorenzo complex
- Learn about the Medici family's political strategies balancing faith and power
Description
The tour starts at Palazzo Medici Riccardi, the center of Florence's political and financial life. Visit the Chapel of the Magi, frescoed by Benozzo Gozzoli, where the Medici are represented as participants in a sacred procession, using religious imagery to assert dynastic power.
Next, proceed to the San Lorenzo complex, noting the exterior of Basilica di San Lorenzo, designed by Filippo Brunelleschi and a key Renaissance landmark.
The guide will explain the Medici complex's significance, including insights about the Laurentian Library and New Sacristy designed by Michelangelo, the Medici tombs, and the Capella dei Principi, a notable Florentine Baroque site.
This tour reveals how the Medici balanced political influence and religious authority in Florence.
Includes
- Professional tour guide
- Guided visit of Palazzo Medici Riccardi
- Access to the Chapel of the Magi
- Visit to the Hall of Mirrors frescoed by Luca Giordano
- Explanation of the San Lorenzo complex from the outside
- Detailed information on Basilica of San Lorenzo, New Sacristy, and Laurentian Library
- Palazzo Medici Riccardi tickets
Excludes
- Admission to Basilica of San Lorenzo and the Medici complex interiors
- Admission to New Sacristy and Laurentian Library
- Transportation to and from the meeting point
- Personal expenses
Important Information
- Some explanations take place outside monuments, without entry to all sites mentioned
- Please arrive at least 10 minutes before the tour starts
- The tour runs rain or shine
- Water is allowed; bottles should not exceed 0.5 liters to comply with museum policies
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Book your tour in advance to secure availability. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a small bottle of water for the walk.
