museums | Florence Daily News

The Price of Art: What are Museums really for?

The recent increase in ticket prices at several of Florence’s civic and state museums has reopened the debate.

Visiting the home of Michelangelo’s David and other iconic Florentine landmarks now comes with a higher price tag.

From February 1st, 2026, a newly accessible room expands the visit to Santa Maria del Carmine.

In recent years, critics and historians have noted how museums have quietly assumed a role once occupied by churches.

Free guided tours are planned on 27 January 2026 at the former Murate prison and Museo Novecento.

From March 14 to August 23, 2026, Florence will host a major exhibition, with over 70 works at Palazzo Strozzi and two satellite venues.

The increase reflects higher operating costs and will affect all major city-run museums and monuments.

The project marks the concrete restart of one of Tuscany’s most unusual historic complexes.

Special holiday openings are planned across Florence’s main state museums, with full closure only on 25 and 29 December.

Major restoration works have begun at the former convent, one of Florence’s largest and most complex historic sites.