The Palazzo Vecchio was built at the end of the 13th and the beginning of the 14th century as the seat of the Priori (the “Priors of the Arts”), probably according to plans by Arnolfo di Cambio. Over the years it was enlarged by extensions, but only the historical original is shown at Minimundus. It was subsequently the seat of the Medici family until they moved into the Palazzo Pitti. It is from this period that the name “Vecchio“ (old) derives. Today, part of the Palazzo Vecchio still serves as the town hall and part is a museum for touring exhibitions. Particularly noteworthy are the painted palace rooms, the Hall of the Five Hundred and the chambers of the Medici. In front of the Palazzo Vecchio, on the Piazza della Signoria, is surely the most beautiful fountain in Florence: the Neptune Fountain by Ammannati.
