Basilica of Santa Maria Novella, Gothic and Renaissance basilica in Historic Centre of Florence, Italy
The Basilica of Santa Maria Novella is a large church building in the historic center of Florence, Italy, that belonged to Dominican preaching friars. The facade displays geometric patterns in white and green marble, while the length of about 99 meters encompasses several side chapels, cloisters and a Spanish chapel.
Construction began in 1246 when Dominicans expanded and transformed an older 9th-century church. The facade was completed only in the 15th century by Leon Battista Alberti, who added classical elements.
The name Santa Maria Novella dates back to the 13th century, when Dominicans built their new church here as distinct from older structures. Today believers attend mass while visitors enter chapels and view frescoes commissioned by Florentine families over centuries of patronage.
The basilica opens daily from 9 AM to 5:30 PM, with admission that also grants access to the cloisters and Spanish Chapel. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes since the complex covers multiple levels and courtyards that require walking to explore.
The cloister contains an old pharmacy laboratory that was operated by monks from the 16th century and still sells herbal soaps and perfumes today. Visitors can see the glass vessels and distilling equipment once used to prepare remedies.
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