The Piazza della Signoria is a singular urbanistic creation that began taking shape from 1268 onwards. 36 houses were demolished which explains the unusual "L" shape of the square.
The name comes from the most important monument there, the Palazzo della Signoria designed by Arnolfo di Cambio in 1298-99.
The square is a large open air museum with great sculptures including the David by Michelangelo, the equestrian statue of Cosimo I dei Medici by Giambologna, the Fountain of neptune by Ammannati and Cellini's bronze Perseus. Connecting the square to the Duomo you will find a lively shopping street.