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Florence Cathedral

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Florence Cathedral (Italy)

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Florence Cathedral, formally the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, is the signature landmark of Florence, Italy, and a masterpiece of Italian Gothic and early Renaissance architecture. Construction on the cathedral began in 1296 to a design by Arnolfo di Cambio and continued for over 140 years. The greatest challenge was the construction of the enormous dome, which was finally designed by Filippo Brunelleschi and built between 1420 and 1436. Brunelleschi's innovative double-shelled design without traditional scaffolding was a marvel of engineering for its time and remains the largest brick dome ever constructed. The exterior of the cathedral is faced with polychrome marble panels in various shades of pink, green, and white. Adjacent to the cathedral are the Campanile (bell tower), designed by Giotto, and the Baptistery of Saint John. Together, these buildings form part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The interior is less ornate than the exterior but holds significant works of art, including Giorgio Vasari's fresco of the Last Judgment on the dome's interior.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C2361015202322171383
Rain mm556663576344334066849670

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
Florence Cathedral, known as the Duomo, is open to visitors and can be viewed both inside and outside. Entry to the nave is free, while the dome and other areas require a ticket.
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Typical hours
The cathedral is typically open daily from around 10:00 to 17:00, Sundays often from 13:30 only. The dome has separate hours that should be checked in advance.
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Photography
Photography without flash is allowed inside the cathedral, but not always in the dome. Outside, you can freely capture the façade and Brunelleschi's dome.
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Time needed
Allow at least two hours to see the nave, dome, and baptistery. With queues for climbing the dome, it may take longer.
Combine with
Combine the visit with the Baptistery and Giotto's Bell Tower, both on Piazza del Duomo. The Museo dell'Opera del Duomo is also worth a visit.
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Getting there
The cathedral is located in the heart of Florence's old town, easily reachable on foot from Santa Maria Novella station. Buses stop near Piazza del Duomo.
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Insider tip
Climb the dome early in the morning to avoid long queues and enjoy wide-open views over Florence. Book tickets online in advance.

Geography

Coordinates
43.77320, 11.25560

Facts

  • Construction on the cathedral began in the year 1296.
  • Brunelleschi's dome has a diameter of 45.5 meters (149 ft).
  • The cathedral is 153 meters long, and the dome reaches a height of 114.5 meters.
  • Giotto's Campanile is 84.7 meters (278 ft) tall and has 414 steps.
  • The 19th-century facade was designed by Emilio De Fabris.
  • The Baptistery's bronze doors by Ghiberti were dubbed the 'Gates of Paradise' by Michelangelo.

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Sights in the town Florence Cathedral (10)

Giotto's Campanile

The bell tower designed by Giotto features a wide view over Florence.

🕒 Mo-Su 08:15-19:45

Crypt of Santa Reparata🏛 museum

Beneath the cathedral lie the remains of the earlier 4th-century Santa Reparata church.

🕒 Mo-Sa 10:15-16:45; Su,PH closed💶

Florence Baptistery of St. John

The octagonal baptistery in front of the cathedral is one of Florence's oldest buildings.

🕒 Mo-Su 09:00-19:45

Museum of Bigallo🏛 museum

The museum displays artworks and historical objects from the Bigallo confraternity.

Museo della Misericordia🏛 museum

The museum documents the history of the Archconfraternity of Mercy in Florence.

Teatro Niccolini

This historic theatre in Florence hosts plays and musical performances.

Porta della Mandorla

This side portal on the north side of the cathedral was built between 1391 and 1422.

San Salvatore al Vescovo

The church in Florence is a place of worship and history.

Chiesa di San Benedetto

The church building in Florence serves the local religious community.

Chiesa di San Giovannino degli Scolopi

The church in Florence belongs to the Piarist school order.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Does entering the church cost money?
Entry to the cathedral itself is usually free.
Can you climb the dome?
Yes, but you need a ticket and a reservation.
Is there an elevator?
No, you must climb over 400 steps on foot.
Where do I buy tickets?
Best online on the official website.
What is the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo?
A museum behind the cathedral with the original artworks.
Florence Cathedral: where is it located?
Florence Cathedral is located in Italy.
Florence Cathedral: what is there to see?
Highlights include Giotto's Campanile, Crypt of Santa Reparata, Florence Baptistery of St. John.
Florence Cathedral: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Florence Cathedral: why is it worth visiting?
Florence Cathedral, formally the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, is the signature landmark of Florence, Italy, and a masterpiece of Italian Gothic and early Renaissance architecture.
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