Forte Belvedere Under New Management

The historic Forte Belvedere will reopen to the public on June 24 with a renewed focus on culture and accessibility for all after being closed for the best part of 10 years. Under the management of Fondazione MUS.E, the landmark is set to become a vibrant hub for diverse and engaging activities.

The fortress, admired for its panoramic terraces and architectural splendour, will now host a dynamic calendar of events which will unfold across the site’s expansive terraces, revitalising its role as a centre of civic and artistic life.

The newly managed space will also feature a public-access cafeteria and bookshop, welcoming not only visitors to the fortress but also guests attending independently of museum visits. The goal, city officials say, is to make the Forte Belvedere more accessible and integrated into the cultural life of Florence. 

“For us, it’s essential to focus even more on the artistic vocation of this marvellous and much-loved place,” said Giovanni Bettarini, Councillor for Culture. “We want to return it to the Florentines, making it increasingly frequented and able to attract a varied public.”

Fondazione MUS.E has been entrusted with the stewardship of the site for the next ten years, ensuring a long-term vision that combines heritage preservation with contemporary educational programming. 

Forte Belvedere was built between 1590 and 1595 to defend the city from the south, having been commissioned by Grand Duke Ferdinando I de Medici. The fort was designed by the architect Bernardo Buontalenti who is said to have been instructed by Giorgio Vasari in architecture and Michelangelo in sculpture.  (Mina Lozanova/additional reporting by Ted Deveer)