Santa Caterina delle Ruote, Gothic church in Ponte a Ema, Italy.
Santa Caterina delle Ruote is an oratory featuring Gothic architectural elements with symmetrical proportions, situated near Florence in the Tuscan countryside. The building displays typical medieval construction methods and structural features from this period.
The Alberti family established this religious building in 1348, during a period of major architectural development across the Florence region. The structure was created when Gothic building practices were becoming widespread throughout Tuscany.
The interior walls feature detailed frescoes showing scenes from Saint Catherine of Alexandria's life, painted by artists including the Master of Barberino and Pietro Nelli. Visitors can observe the artistic techniques and religious themes that were typical of this period.
The building is accessible without steps and wheelchair friendly. Visitors should plan their visit for morning or afternoon hours to make the most of natural light and see the frescoes with optimal visibility.
Spinello Aretino, one of the most important 14th-century Tuscan painters, contributed significantly to the fresco cycle decorating the walls. His work here represents some of his lesser-known pieces and demonstrates his skill in fresco painting technique.
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