The Medici Chapels and the San Lorenzo Basilica

The powerful Medici family left their mark all over Florence. In fact, it’s impossible to walk through this city without coming across reminders of the dynasty that ruled it for centuries. Right now, you’re standing in front of their private chapels—an important place to pause and learn more about this legendary Florentine family. Back in the 15th century, Giovanni di Averardo de’ Medici expanded the family’s banking business, opening branches in cities like Rome, Naples, and Venice. With money came power. In 1429, his eldest son, Cosimo de’ Medici, took control of the family bank. Later, Cosimo’s grandson—Lorenzo the Magnificent—would become one of the most admired figures in Florence. Lorenzo was known for supporting artists and thinkers, including Botticelli and a young Leonardo da Vinci. His passion for the arts helped spark the Renaissance. One of Lorenzo’s sons even became Pope Leo X, which gave the Medici even more influence, not just in Florence, but across Europe. For centuries, one Medici after another held power. But their reign came to an end in the 18th century, with Anna Maria Luisa, the last of the family line. After her brother, Gian Gastone, passed away—leaving no heir—she chose to gift the Medici’s art and treasures to the Tuscan state. That gesture helped preserve Florence’s cultural heritage. After that, power passed to the Duke of Lorraine. Still today, the Medici legacy is everywhere. You can see it in the grand buildings, in their art collections, and especially here, in their chapels. These private chapels, designed by Michelangelo, hold the tombs of 49 Medici family members—including grand dukes and other relatives. This beautiful mausoleum is a tribute to the people who helped shape Florence into one of the most important cities in Europe. Just a few steps from here is the Basilica of San Lorenzo—one of Florence’s largest and oldest churches. It was the Medici family’s parish church, and in the 15th century, it was rebuilt by the famous architect Brunelleschi in the new Renaissance style. If you’d like to discover even more about the Medici, we invite you to step inside their chapels and explore the Basilica of San Lorenzo. It’s a journey through the heart of Florence’s rich and fascinating history.