Donatello's bronze David — the first free-standing nude cast since antiquity — is here, along with his marble David and his St George. So are Ghiberti's and Brunelleschi's competition panels for the Baptistery doors, mounted side by side so you can judge the 1401 competition yourself.
The building was the city's police headquarters and gaol, and executions were carried out in the courtyard. It has the atmosphere to match, which suits the collection.
It is a few minutes from the Duomo and a fraction as busy as the Uffizi.
⭐ If the Accademia is sold out, come here instead. It is the better sculpture museum.
The Bargello in pictures
