Bust of a Man

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The Pitti Palace, sometimes referred to as the Palazzo Pitti, is a colossal Renaissance palace situated on the south side of Florence's River Arno, just a short distance from the iconic Ponte Vecchio bridge. Originally built in 1458, the core of this magnificent structure was initially the private residence of Luca Pitti, an ambitious and influential Florentine banker. The Medici family acquired the palace in 1549, transforming it into their primary residence as the ruling dynasty of the Grand Duchy of Tuscany. Over time, successive generations amassed a vast collection of precious artworks, including paintings, delicate plates, exquisite jewelry, and other luxurious treasures. In the late 18th century, Napoleon seized control of the palazzo, utilizing it as a strategic power base before later serving as the principal royal palace for the newly unified Italy. By 1919, King Victor Emmanuel III generously donated the palace and its contents to the Italian people. Today, the Pitti Palace is Florence's largest museum complex, boasting an impressive principal block measuring 32,000 square meters. The structure is divided into several main galleries or museums, which are detailed below.