Wednesday, 1 July 2015

The Medici villa at Poggio a Caiano and the old kitchens

The beautiful villa- not far from Prato and Florence- was commissioned by Lorenzo de 'Medici  around the year 1480.

the architect of the villa was Giuliano da Sangallo
photo alpy 2012

The villa's gardens are very beautiful and inside the building are preserved several works of art.
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The villa can be visited also the small theater that was built by Marguerite Louise d'Orl矇ans (the wife of a duke of Tuscany) and the apartment of Bianca Cappello, who died here in 1587.
In the large hall are visible frescoes by Andrea del Sarto, Pontormo, Franciabigio, Alessandro Allori etc.
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The villa was also used by the King of Italy, then some of the furniture and decorations are the nineteenth century.
Other villas belonged to the historic Medici family are visited by tourists. Also Villa of Petraia is interesting.
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From July 4 to October 25, 2015, visitors can extend their tour by visiting the old kitchen of the villa and a special exhibition. To access some old rooms need to book.
The exhibition shows several ancient paintings of kitchens, cooks and food. Some works of art come from important museums or private collections.


ancient fireplace kitchen-photo by Opera Laboratori Fiorentini-Civita

painting of Giacomo Ceruti said Pitocchetto - painted in the fifth decade
 of the eighteenth century-photo by Opera Laboratori Fiorentini-Civita

The private kitchens of the nobles were largely designed and built between 1614 and 1619 during the reign of Cosimo II de 'Medici.
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If you choose a hotel in Prato can see also the beautiful cathedral and many beautiful monuments.

Prato cathedral -photo ap

frescos in Prato, photo s.b


MUSEUM PRATO

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