San Frediano in Cestello, Baroque church in Oltrarno district, Florence, Italy
San Frediano in Cestello is a baroque church in the Oltrarno district of Florence, oriented toward the Arno River with a prominent dome and bell tower. The interior features bright, airy spaces with decorative elements, while the stone facade remains unfinished, giving the building its distinctive appearance.
Cistercian monks acquired the site in 1628 and hired architect Gherardo Silvani to design the church, which was finished in 1689. This baroque construction reflected the building ambitions of religious orders in Florence during that period.
The building was commissioned by Cistercian monks and carries their spiritual vision throughout. Visitors can sense this monastic heritage in the quiet and orderly character of the interior today.
Entry is through a side door on the western side of the building, and the church maintains regular opening hours. Keep in mind that access may be limited during religious services.
A carved wooden statue of the Smiling Madonna from the 13th or 14th century sits in the third chapel on the left side of the nave. This rare piece reflects a different artistic period than the baroque decoration surrounding it and often surprises visitors.
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