The Duomo of Santa Maria del Fiore, Florence Travel Guide
Magnificent Dome Dominates Florence
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Visible from on high the Duomo is another of the city’s iconic images, its red-tiled dome a testament to the skill of Brunelleschi, its architect. Past the 19th century façade and beneath the famous campanile the interior is decorated with stained glass and frescoes.
An instantly recognisable feature of Florence's skyline is the dome of the Duomo, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. The building itself was begun in 1296 by the sculptor Arnolfo di Cambio and numerous artisans continued his work over the next one hundred and fifty years.
The renowned painter Giotto designed its sturdy bell tower or campanile in 1334 but it is the massive octagonal cupola (dating from 1420-36) that truly dominates both the church and the city, the amazing work of Filippo Brunelleschi.
Attractions in The Duomo of Santa Maria del Fiore, Florence
The cathedral of Florence itself had been begun in the Gothic style by Arnolfo di Cambio in 1296, but in 1366 the City of Florence took the decision that the Gothic form should no longer be used and that all new work should follow Roman forms. This gave rise to the magnificent 42 metre-span dome we see today.
This amazing piece of work was first suggested by Brunelleschi and the decision-makers were won over by the 1/12-scale model he built to demonstrate his ideas. It consists of two layers: an inner dome spanning the diameter and a parallel, outer ‘shell’ to protect it from the weather and enhance its look. Both domes are supported by 24 stone ribs 2.1m thick at the base, tapering to 1.5m where they meet.
The cathedral is built as a basilica, with a nave and two aisles, forming a Roman cross. These are divided by wide pointed arches with composite pilasters, dividing the nave into four square bays.
At the end of the 16th century the façade of the cathedral was destroyed; the current one by Emilio de Fabris dates from 1867-87.
The Cathedral Museum (Museo dell'Opera del Duomo) houses famous statues from the former façade, from the interior and from the Campanile, as well as important manuscripts.
Activities in The Duomo of Santa Maria del Fiore, Florence
Allow 2 hours to explore.
Relaxing
The Duomo often puts on music and recitals – see www.operaduomo.firenze.it/english
Getting Around
On foot.
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