Home to the Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore and the Baptistery of St John, this historic bustling square is a feast for the eyes that is not to be missed.
Located in the heart of Florence, the Piazza del Duomo is a vibrant hub of activity that has been attracting the attention of culture-lovers for decades. Taking centre stage is the city’s famous cathedral (or “Duomo” as it is normally called) whose dome dominates the Florentine skyline, while countless architectural and artistic gems lie close by.Renowned for its striking pink, white and green marble décor, this gothic cathedral is a prominent and colourful showpiece, in stark contrast to the sea of sandstone buildings which surround it. If you’re feeling fit, why not climb the cathedral’s 463 steps and enjoy a breathtaking view of this beautiful Italian city. Or pop over to the nearby Giotto’s Bell Tower (Campanile di Giotto) for an equally stunning vantage point of the mountainous landscape.Another “must-see” is the Baptistery of St John, Florence’s oldest religious monument located directly across from the cathedral. This magnificent landmark is an example of typical Florentine Romanesque architecture and was constructed over a 70-year period beginning in 1059. With an exterior that is clad in geometrically-patterned coloured marble, the baptistery boasts an octagonal layout and is best known for its three sets of bronze doors which feature intricately drawn scenes from the Bible. The most famous of these are the east doors designed by Lorenzo Ghiberti and dubbed by Michelangelo as the “Gates of Paradise”. These doors are actually copies of the original gilded bronze panels which are housed in the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo for restoration and preservation, along with countless other important works of art that were created for the Duomo, such as Michelangelo’s Pietà, making this site another popular attraction.There are plenty more sites to keep you occupied for the day as you wander around this picturesque square. Take a stroll to the corner of Via dei Calzaiuoli and Piazza San Giovanni and admire the numerous frescos and devotional works in the mid-14th century Loggia del Bagello.If the hustle and bustle of the crowds becomes a bit too much, you can always retreat to the shade and indulge in some delicious gelato while taking in the sparkling atmosphere of Italy’s own gate to paradise.
