Florence Center - Self Guided Tour

Written on 08/01/2024

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Florence offers a rich tapestry of Renaissance history and culture. While exploring this captivating city, be sure to visit these four gems, brimming with beauty and tradition.

Locations to Visit

Estimated Time: 2 hours

Church of Santa Maria Novella

Santa Maria Novella: The Intersection of Dominican Faith and Renaissance Art

Santa Maria Novella is closely linked to the Dominican order, similar to how Santa Croce is linked to the Franciscans. In 1221, the Dominicans acquired the church of Santa Maria delle Vigne, surrounded by fields. The church's renovation was completed in the mid-14th century, and it was consecrated in 1420.

The Rucellai family later commissioned Leon Battista Alberti to complete its façade, blending Renaissance and Gothic styles. The church features works by renowned artists like Giotto, Masaccio, and Botticelli. Today, Santa Maria Novella remains an important religious and cultural site in Florence, with its historical pharmacy and exquisite art.

Piazza della Reppublica

Piazza della Repubblica: Florence’s Vibrant Crossroads of History

Piazza della Repubblica, the vibrant heart of Florence, merges the city’s ancient and modern eras. Originating as a Roman forum marked by the Column of Abundance, it evolved from a bustling medieval market into a grand 19th-century square.

The area was transformed during Florence's time as Italy's capital (1865-71), with medieval buildings demolished for stately structures. Today, it's a lively center featuring historic cafés like Caffè delle Giubbe Rosse and modern attractions like a charming carousel. The square remains a cultural and social hub, bridging the historic Piazza del Duomo and Piazza della Signoria.

Il Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore)

Largest Dome in the World

The title "Santa Maria del Fiore" (Lady of the flower) alludes to the name of the city, "Florentia," or "city of flowers," "destined to bloom," and to its emblem, the Florentine lily.

Santa Maria del Fiore is one of the largest churches in the world with its first stone being in 1296. The iconic dome, designed by Filippo Brunelleschi and erected by Arnolfo di Cambio, has become a symbol of wealth and power, triumphing over the city of Florence. Visitors can climb the dome viewing panoramic views of the city.

The structure consists of a bell tower and a baptistry that can be visited throughout the year. For mass, enter on the right side (bell tower) of the cathedral. For tourist visits, enter on the left.

Basilica of San Lorenzo

Exploring San Lorenzo: Michelangelo, Brunelleschi, and the Medici Legacy

The Basilica of San Lorenzo in Florence, originally dedicated to Saint Ambrose and built in the 4th century, stands as a prime example of Renaissance architecture. Enlarged by Filippo Brunelleschi in 1418 under the Medici patronage, its harmonious proportions and design are enduring symbols of the era.

Though Michelangelo's planned marble façade was never completed, the church houses masterpieces like Brunelleschi's Old Sacristy and Donatello's bronze doors. The Medici Chapels, including Michelangelo's New Sacristy and the Chapel of the Princes, complete the basilica’s artistic legacy.