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Basilica of Santa Maria Novella
The first great basilica in Florence, Basilica of Santa Maria Novella is a treasure house of sacred ornaments and artifacts built on top of an earlier place of worship that dates back to the ninth century. The most famous are the Gothic and Renaissance frescoes commissioned by the city's most prominent families. The interior of the basilica is a labyrinth of chapels, all decorated with Renaissance artwork commissioned by families such as the Medicis. One of these family members, Cosimo I, held chariot races in the large square at the front entrance. This tradition lasted until the 19th century. Look at the sacristy for one of Giotto's early works, "John the Evangelist." Plan your visit to Basilica of Santa Maria Novella and a wealth of other attractions, well-known and undiscovered, using our Florence trip itinerary builder tool.
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Basilica of Santa Maria Novella reviews
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This church is gorgeous. We were waiting for a friend in the neighborhood and this was a nice surprise . Unfortunately we didn’t have time to enter but we admire it from the outside.
This church is gorgeous. We were waiting for a friend in the neighborhood and this was a nice surprise . Unfortunately we didn’t have time to enter but we admire it from the outside. more »
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Beautiful frescoes and astronomical points when the sun shines through the rose window. Ornate side chapels. Very interesting is the Cloister of the Dead on the lower level that has 14th century...
Beautiful frescoes and astronomical points when the sun shines through the rose window. Ornate side chapels. Very interesting is the Cloister of the Dead on the lower level that has 14th century... more »
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So I debated visiting here on my way to the train station and decided to give it a shot. The inside of the church is definitely beautiful, but it’s a quick walk through. Then you come to the outside grounds of the church and there is tons of beautiful spaces. Also you will find some amazing frescos. An amazing chapel and a small museum with a few reliquaries. I think all that was well worth the €7.50 entree fee
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For a couple of years I've been walking by this church and just never went in this time I spent the time looking at the church and was very impressed. I went towards closing time so was not able to take in the museum but I was able to sit in on a mass that was in session and just being in the place was a great feeling. Every piece of artwork in the main sanctuary is well documented. All I can say is unlike myself don't keep walking by this gem in Florence stop and look.
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