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Basilica of Santa Maria Novella, Florence

4.6

#9 of 114 in Historic Sites in Florence

Architectural Building Church

• ©

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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TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

3,579 reviews

Google

4.7

• By atalayali

  Floransa tren istasyonu karşısında bizi ilk karşılayan yapı oldu.Floransa'nın ilk büyük bazilikasıymış.Yapımı neredeyse yüz yıl sürmüş,buna bağlı olarak Rönesans,Klasik, Gotik tarzı mimarinin izleri g...  more »

  Florence was the first building we met across the street from the train station. It was florence's first big basilica. It took almost a hundred years to build, so traces of Renaissance, Classical, Gothic architecture can be seen. When we left, it was restored and it wasn't all open, so we observed it from the outside and moved on.
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• By rleNewEngland

  We enjoyed the time we spend in this church. The architecture and furnishings are beautiful. Through the cloisters was a modern exhibition of Leonardo Da Vinci and his connection with nature. Very wel...  more »

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Google

• By Patten Welding

  Another absolutely gorgeous church just around the corner from the railway station. No photos inside, but then again that isn't all that surprising. However, the gardens outside are beautiful, and inside the artwork and the sculptures are absolutely magnificent. It really isn't all that big of a church, but it is still a marvel to behold.

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• By Rebecca Boncheck

  Very historical and emotional overwhelming place. Take the guided tour if able, amazing history description. Appreciate the artistry. The outside square offers great photo ops and live music. Many cafes in the square with good food. Train station right across providing easy access. Local venders also have unique offerings.

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