The Vasari Corridor in Florence is set to reopen in May 2024 after undergoing renovations since its closure in 2016.

The Vasari Corridor, a covered walkway connecting the Uffizi Gallery with Palazzo Pitti in Florence, is scheduled to reopen to the public in May 2024. The reopening will coincide with the anniversary of the Via dei Georgofili Sicilian Mafia bombing that occurred on May 26-27, 1993, near the Uffizi Galleries.

The Vasari Corridor, which runs above the iconic Ponte Vecchio spanning the Arno River, was closed to the public in 2016 due to safety concerns. Since then, it has been undergoing extensive refurbishment, including the installation of a new lighting system, air conditioning, and measures to make it fully accessible to all visitors.

Eike Schmidt, the director of the Uffizi Gallery, announced that the corridor is entering its final phase of work for the reopening. Many of the necessary measures to meet fire and air conditioning requirements, as well as accessibility standards, have already been completed. The remaining tasks involve finishing touches to the structure and systems, followed by the layout preparations.

Schmidt expressed his intention to reopen the Vasari Corridor on the anniversary of the Cosa Nostra mafia bombing, which claimed the lives of five people. This significant date holds historical importance and serves as a reminder of the impact of organized crime.

The Vasari Corridor, designed by architect Giorgio Vasari in 1565, was initially constructed to allow Florence’s Medici rulers to move freely and discreetly between the Palazzo Vecchio, the seat of city government, and their private palace in Palazzo Pitti on the other side of the Arno River.

The reopening of the Vasari Corridor will not only offer visitors a unique experience but also provide an opportunity to appreciate the historical and architectural significance of this iconic structure. The refurbishment efforts, including the focus on accessibility, highlight the importance of preserving cultural heritage while ensuring inclusivity for all visitors.

As we eagerly anticipate the reopening of the Vasari Corridor in May 2024, let us reflect on the resilience of historical landmarks and the role they play in connecting us to the past, while also embracing the future with improved accessibility and sustainability.