Santa Maria del Fiore façade, Gothic Revival cathedral façade in Piazza del Duomo, Florence, Italy
The western façade of the Santa Maria del Fiore cathedral features geometric patterns made of green, pink, and white marble panels that structure three tiers of openings. The carefully worked stone elements fill the entire width of the structure facing Piazza del Duomo.
The current façade was designed by Emilio De Fabris in 1864 to replace an incomplete medieval structure that was taken down in the late sixteenth century. This redesign brought together medieval and modern elements, giving the cathedral a finished appearance after centuries of incompleteness.
The façade displays religious figures and biblical scenes through mosaics and sculptural works. These artworks reflect the deep bond between the city and its spiritual tradition.
The best views of the details occur during early morning or late afternoon when light falls favorably on the marble panels. From Piazza del Duomo you can examine all levels of the façade closely without needing to enter the cathedral itself.
The central rose window at the heart of the façade contains colored glass pieces arranged in a complex pattern. This glasswork is visible from the square and displays the craftsmanship embedded in every part of the façade.
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