As to its structure and its architect, Vasari, who later was called in to restore it, has a deal to say, but it is too technical for us.

It was built by Simone di Pollaiuolo, who was known as Cronaca (the Chronicler) from his vivid way of telling his adventures.

Cronaca (1454-1508), who was a personal friend and devotee of Savonarola, drew up his plan in consultation with Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo (although then so young: only nineteen or twenty) and others.

Its peculiarity is that it is one of the largest rooms in existence without pillars.

From the foot of the steps to the further wall I make it fifty-eight paces, and thirty wide; and the proportions strike the eye as perfect.