Basilica of Santa Maria Novella, Florence
The Basilica of Santa Maria Novella in Florence is considered one of the main churches in the capital of Tuscany. We don't know much about the history of Santa Maria Novella. The monks of the Dominican order, who arrived in Florence in 1219, were given a small church for their deeds. The construction of the basilica began in 1279. At first, the naves were built, and almost a century later, the sacristy and the bell tower were completed, combining Gothic and early Renaissance architecture.
The facade of the building was subjected to repeated restructuring. The first who began the restructuring of the basilica, was a famous architect, writer and artist Giorgio Vasari. Under his project, the large windows were narrowed, in the Gothic style, whereas the side altars were restored. Later, thanks to the famous architect Leon Battista Alberti, the facade was decorated with the white and green marble tiles with the coat of arms of the Rucellai family on them.
Basilica interior
Inside, the basilica almost preserved its original look. Above the altar in the Filippo Strozzi Chapel, you can see a unique crucifix and many frescoes created by Michelangelo himself. The Bardi Chapel houses the remarkable canvas “Madonna and Rose” created by Vasari. The Rucellai Chapel is worth noting because it used to store the canvas “Madonna Rucellai.” The Cappella Strozzi di Mantova can show you the paradise. The sacristy, built in the Gothic style, can also be called one of the attractions of the church. There, you can admire the vase created by Giovanni della Robbia.
The cloister of the dead is considered the most mysterious place of the basilica. It's not for visits. Here are the tombs of the most influential and wealthy inhabitants of Florence. The cloister of Popes is one of the special places since, for some time, the church was the official residence of the popes. The chapel is decorated with many frescoes. Its the ceiling presents 9 paintings with angels. Near them, you can see the coat of arms of the Medici dynasty.
How to get there
The Basilica is located at Piazza di Santa Maria Novella, 18. As a rule, there are no traffic problems in tourist Italy. You can get to Florence's Santa Maria Novella Station by train or bus. The station is located in the city centre, not far from the Basilica of the same name, and it's just 3 minutes' walk.
Working hours: from 09:00 to 17:30 on Monday-Thursday, from 11:00 to 17:30 on Friday, from 9:00 to 17:00 on Saturday, and from 13:00 to 17:00 on Sunday and religious days.
Ticket price: entrance to the basilica is 5 euros.
