Florence Cathedral, Cathedral in Florence, Italy
Florence Cathedral, also known as Santa Maria del Fiore, is a basilica in central Florence with three naves and a large octagonal dome. The outer walls display geometric patterns in white, green, and pink marble, while the interior features tall columns and a wide central aisle.
Construction started on September 8, 1296, following a design by Arnolfo di Cambio to replace an older church on the same site. In the 15th century, Filippo Brunelleschi added the dome, which was the largest of its time and opened a new chapter in architectural history.
The name Santa Maria del Fiore, adopted in 1412 while the building was still going up, refers to the lily, the symbol of Florence, and to Christ. The cathedral is the seat of the Archdiocese of Florence and holds the rank of minor basilica; it can hold up to 30,000 people. During the consecration on 25 March 1436, Guillaume Dufay's motet Nuper rosarum flores was performed.
Entry to the main nave is free, but visitors must wear appropriate clothing with covered shoulders and knees. The church closes to tourists on Sundays and religious holidays when liturgical celebrations take place.
The floor inside displays intricate marble mosaics created by grand ducal workshops during the 16th and 17th centuries. These works form a continuous pattern beneath visitors' feet, showing geometric shapes and symbolic representations.
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