St Mark's English Church, Florence

St Mark's English Church is an Anglican church housed in a converted 15th-century palazzo, with Renaissance Revival architecture and Pre-Raphaelite decorations adorning the walls. The interior displays floral patterns and accommodates approximately 400 visitors.

Reverend Charles Tooth founded the church in 1877 as a house chapel and purchased the palazzo building in 1880 to create a formal worship space. This transformation marked the shift from a private to a public place of worship.

The church draws music lovers regularly, who attend classical concerts and opera performances offered by a long-standing resident opera company. Visitors notice how the spaces become a stage and the historic building comes alive.

Plan to arrive on time since Anglican services follow a regular schedule and seating is limited. The adjoining 15th-century Salone offers refreshments after worship and provides a quiet space to linger.

A white marble statue titled 'The Apotheosis of Saint Mark' created by American sculptor Jason Arkles stands on the church's exterior. This artwork unexpectedly bridges Western and Italian artistic traditions.

Location: Florence

Inception: 1880

Architectural style: Renaissance Revival architecture

Website: http://stmarksitaly.com

GPS coordinates: 43.76758,11.24935

Latest update: December 12, 2025 07:59