The collection of works in the Uffizi Gallery cannot be compared to any other world collection and is probably the only one to have just masterpieces of exceptional value.

The Uffizi Gallery, (1560-1580) designed by Vasari in 1560 and built by Cosimo I of Medici. The Uffizi was meant to be an officio (office) for magistrates as well as judges, technicians and merchants of Florence, were turned on the top floor into a private gallery for the pleasure of the ruling family of Florence, the Medicis, and their guests.

Vasari, who sadly died that same year, could hardly have imagined that inside that building, born to house the Magistracy, almost all the major painters (not just Florentine) whose biographies he had written in one of the most interesting documents on the history of art, Lives, would have been on show.

In addition to paintings, statues, jewelry, scientific instruments, even weapons, were displayed there. This unique situation made the Uffizi one of the most interesting and precious collections in the whole world.

It was based on an idea of Vasari, who had put the portrait of each artist with his biography, that Leopoldo de’Medici started the rich collection of artists’ self-portraits.

Since 1865 it became a museum, nowadays with 50 rooms housing paintings ranging from 13th century to the 18th century. Highlights are the famous “Madonna enthroned” by Giotto, the “Battle of San Romano” by Paolo Uccello, the double portrait by Piero della Francesca, “Federico da Montefeltro”, the “Birth of Venus” by Botticelli , in addition to 3 works by Leonardo, 1 by Michelangelo, a few by Raffaello and many by Tiziano.

All of the gallery’s paintings have been displayed chronologically, so it is possible to fully appreciated all the innovations in art throughout the centuries.

Michelangelo New York hotel – lobby

The luxury Michelangelo in New York City is located amidst the shining lights of Manhattan’s Theater District and just steps from some of New York City’s major sites – Rockefeller Center, the boutiques of Fifth and Madison Avenues, and the non-stop buzz of Times Square.

The Michelangelo exudes the old world charm of an Italian Grande Dame hotel with all the modern touches today’s urban travelers have come to expect.

The four-star, five-diamond Michelangelo hotel is owned and operated by Italy-based Starhotels group and is a proud member of Preferred Hotels and Resorts. The Michelangelo becomes the brand’s first luxury property in the U.S.

The Michelangelo hotel features 123 guest room, 56 suites, and 28 residences. With some of the largest rooms in the Big Apple, customers can enjoy an average of 475 square feet of living space.

Michelangelo New York hotel – Exec room

The elegant decor at the Michelangelo consists of marble, cherry wood, and black and brass accents that are softened by rich silks and velvets, many of which were custom woven exclusively for the property.

You will also discover many pieces of original artwork of both Italian and European origin throughout the hotel, including the grand lobby, lounges, meeting rooms, plus private spaces that add to the hotel’s palatial feel.

For an Italian heritage, fine-dining experience, try the Insieme restaurant. Under the culinary creative direction of new Executive Chef Andres Grundy, Insieme (“together” in Italian) offers patrons a feast that intertwines the cuisines of Italy, France, and Spain. Each dish on Insieme’s seasonally-changing menu will showcase Chef Grundy’s personal gourmet inspirations.

For additional information or to book a reservation, please visit: The Michelangelo in New York City