Palazzo Strozzi (Strozzi Palace), Florence

With its rusticated stone inspired by the Medici Palace, this palace is another example of civil architecture, albeit with more harmonious proportions. Its construction commenced in 1489 under the guidance of Benedetto da Maiano, commissioned by Filippo Strozzi the Elder, a rival of the Medici family. Upon his return to the city in 1466, Strozzi sought to establish his family's enduring prominence by constructing the most magnificent palace possible as a political statement of his own elevated status. Unfortunately, he passed away in 1491, long before the construction's completion in 1538. In that same year, Duke Cosimo I de' Medici seized the palace, only returning it to the Strozzi family three decades later.

Unlike the Medici Palace, which occupied a corner lot and only had two visible sides, the Strozzi Palace stands independently, surrounded on all four sides by streets. This presented a new challenge in Renaissance architecture-how to integrate the cross-axis while maintaining internal symmetry, a newly desired feature. The palace's ground plan adheres strictly to symmetry on both axes, with clearly differentiated scales for its main rooms. The arches showcase radiating voussoirs that increase in length as they ascend towards the keystone (a detail often imitated in Renaissance revival architecture for arched windows set in rustic stone), while the dominating cornice follows the typical style of Florentine palaces of the time.

Today, the palace has gained recognition for hosting ever-changing contemporary art exhibitions and cultural events. Therefore, it's advisable to check the current displays to see if they align with your interests. Alternatively, you can leisurely explore the tranquil courtyard, which is open to the public without an admission fee, and appreciate the archways and overall layout. If you decide to venture inside, don't miss the small room adjacent to the ticket office that features a wooden model of the palace and informative storyboards on the walls narrating the history of the Strozzi family-a truly captivating experience. Generally, there is no waiting queue, so there's no need to plan ahead or make reservations.

Tip:
Since the palace is one of the few attractions in Florence that stays open late, take advantage of this opportunity to include it as a stop during your evening stroll.