The church was first consecrated in 393, but from then it has been rebuilt for several times. The current form goes back to 1419, when Giovanni de’Medici commissioned Brunelleschi – an architect with the orders reconstruction of the church.
But before completing its reconstruction Brunelleschi died and other architects worked on the church as per Brunelleschi’s design.The Basilica is the burial place of many members of Medici family, so it is also called as Medici Chapel.
The Basilica of San Lorenzo is one of the oldest and largest cathedrals of Florence. The Basilica is a religious complex of Florence and it includes Biblioteca Medico – Laurenziana (Medicean-Laurentian Library) and Cappelle Medicee (Medici Chapels). It was parish church of most powerful Medici family of Florence.
The Biblioteca Laurenziana – the library is an outstanding example of Mannerist architecture by Michelangelo. The library features reader’s desks which are created by Michelangelo and ceilings as well as floors of the library are created by Tribolo. At the centre of the church, there are harmonious and spacious walkways as well as the centre is covered with a sunken panel ceiling. It is distinguished for its exceptional light and its calm classical interior. The mystical lighting of the church illuminates all the architectural features of the building.
The frontage of the Basilica is still incomplete. Michelangelo made a marble design for frontage, but it was never actualized. The Renaissance style interior is elegant with gray columned arcades and white walls. The interior of church is divided into three walkways by curved colonnades that suit side chapels. The ceilings of walkways are vaulted, while the beam of the middle nave is carved into the wood.
The entire church is designed in a Renaissance style; the beauty of this cathedral, both artistically and architecturally, is undoubtedly breathtaking. If you are completely religious prejudice, you will be graced as you enter in cathedral and will feel the divine presence over there.
As Florence features many churches, so on Florence tour you need to find as much time as you can to explore the beauty of Florence and its astounding ancient churches.
