Seven museums in Florence have merged to form the Galleria dell'Accademia di Firenze e Musei del Bargello, creating the world's largest collection of works by Michelangelo. The new complex includes the Bargello National Museum, the Medici Chapels, Palazzo Davanzati, Orsanmichele, Casa Martelli, the former Church of San Procolo, and the Accademia, home to Michelangelo's David. Starting March 15, joint tickets will be available, with a system-wide pass costing €38 for 72 hours. Ticket prices at individual museums will rise on February 1, and three themed tours will launch in May, including one focused on Michelangelo's innovations.
This merger matters because it consolidates Florence's cultural treasures under a single administration, aiming to distribute tourist traffic more evenly across the city's museums. By offering multi-day passes and extended hours, the initiative encourages visitors to slow down and engage more deeply with Florence's art and history, rather than rushing through selfie stops. The move also highlights Michelangelo's enduring centrality to Florence's identity, offering a comprehensive itinerary that traces his life and masterpieces across multiple historic sites.