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Restored frescoes of Palazzo Buontalenti unveiled in Florence

cultural-heritage · 2026-04-27

On May 14, 2022, Florence marked the successful conservation and restoration of the fresco cycle at Palazzo Buontalenti, which spans 600 square meters. Commissioned in 1622 by Cardinal Carlo de' Medici, these frescoes celebrate the first four Grand Dukes of Tuscany and were crafted by renowned Tuscan artists. According to Councilor Titta Meucci, this cycle represents the most intricate celebration of Medici history since Vasari's contributions. Initially desired by Grand Duke Francesco I de' Medici in the late 16th century, the palace has had various functions until 2012. Currently housing the School of Transnational Governance, the restoration has focused on four of the ten frescoed rooms, with additional phases set for 2024 to further enhance its educational role.

Key facts

  • Restoration completed in late 2021, presented on May 14, 2022
  • Frescoes cover about 600 square meters
  • Commissioned in 1622 by Cardinal Carlo de' Medici
  • Painted by numerous Tuscan painters
  • Palace originally built for Grand Duke Francesco I de' Medici in late 16th century
  • Now houses School of Transnational Governance of European University Institute
  • Four of ten frescoed rooms restored so far
  • Further restoration phases planned from 2024

Entities

Artists

  • Cardinal Carlo de' Medici
  • Giorgio Vasari

Institutions

  • Palazzo Buontalenti
  • School of Transnational Governance
  • European University Institute
  • Artribune

Locations

  • Florence
  • Italy
  • San Gallo
  • Cavour
  • San Marco
  • Palazzo Vecchio

Sources