The Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence is one of the most harmonious examples of the Florentine Renaissance and its building began in 1295 on the site where a Franciscan oratory already existed. The layout of the Basilica is shaped like an Egyptian cross, with an exposed wooden roof, supported by pointed arches. Inside the Basilica of Santa Croce is the famous “Pazzi Chapel”, which owes its name to Andrea de’ Pazzi, who commissioned the work; the chapel is really the chapter house of the Basilica, designed and partly built by Filippo Brunelleschi. The tomb of Dante Alighieri is also inside the Basilica of Santa Croce.
Florence’s famous Ponte Vecchio bridge was built in 1345 to cross the narrowest point of the River Arno. Ponte Vecchio is not just a bridge, but a place of reference for the city of Florence. In fact, differently from Florence’s other bridges, it is characterised by its artisan workshops, which give it a truly unique appearance. From it, you can admire the River Arno with its numerous bridges and generally enjoy a splendid view of Florence.
The famous Uffizi Gallery in Florence was built between 1560 and 1580, based on a design by Giorgio Vasari. Today, it represents a treasure trove of works of art and attracts visitors from all over the world with its extraordinary collections of ancient sculptures and paintings ranging from the Middle Ages to the modern era. You can admire works by renowned artists such as Botticelli, Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Giotto, Piero Della Francesca, Mantegna and Caravaggio. The three corridors on the top floor of the Uffizi are the symbol the Gallery, adorned with ancient statues and paintings, and feature large windows that allow you to admire the city’s main monuments.
Piazza della Signoria is the main square in Florence and is located in the historic city centre. The square was the centre of political power in Florence for centuries and is surrounded by some of the city’s most important historical buildings. In the middle of the square, stands the statue of Cosimo I de' Medici, the famous Duke of Florence, and there are numerous other statues and fountains around the square. Among the most important buildings that characterise the square, you can admire Palazzo Vecchio, location of the city’s government, and the Loggia dei Lanzi, an elegant Renaissance building.
The famous Florence Cathedral, or Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, was built between 1296 and 1436 to celebrate the greatness of the city. It is a Gothic-style architectural work of art and represents the mastery of engineering and human creativity. The façade of the Cathedral is adorned with splendid polychrome marble. The interior of the Cathedral is equally impressive, with a vast central nave in which Brunelleschi’s marvellous dome is located. This is one of the most grandiose architectural works of the Italian Renaissance. Lastly, it is also famous for Giotto’s Campanile, a tower 82 metres high that offers a breathtaking view of the city.
The famous Palazzo Pitti was built in the 15th century as a residence for the powerful Florentine Pitti family. Located on the opposite side of the River Arno with respect to the historic centre of the city, it is one of the largest and most majestic palaces in Florence. The building is surrounded by splendid Italian-style gardens that make it even more captivating. Inside the Palace, you can admire priceless works of art, including paintings, sculptures and tapestries. The Palatine Gallery also contains a vast collection of works of art by great masters like Raphael, Titian and Caravaggio.
The Church of Santa Maria Novella is one of the most important churches in Florence and was built in the 13th century by the Dominicans. The church is located near the railway station and is a perfect example of Italian Gothic architecture. The green and white marble façade is particularly impressive, with intricate detailing and an ornamental rose in the centre. Inside the church, you can admire works of art by important artists like Giotto, Masaccio and Botticelli. The Tornabuoni chapel is filled with magnificent frescoes and decorations. The church is famous for its ancient cloister, which is an oasis of peace and tranquillity, with a renaissance well in the centre.