Florence has many amazing churches and cathedrals which makes it a great destination for visitors. All over the city (,) you can find outstanding examples of ancient architecture aspiring to highest heavens
The Basilica of Santa Croce is one of the astonishing churches of Florence.The Basilica of Santa Croce of Florence is the principal Franciscan church of Italy and it is the largest Franciscan cathedral in the world. It is a prestigious symbol and meeting place for some of the greatest politicians, humanists, writers, theologians and artists.The church was constructed in 1294, and is designed by great architect – Arnolfo di Cambio and it was consecrated in 1442 by Pope Eugene IV. The Basilica is standing since seven centuries, enhancing its artistic legacy which makes it most visited and one of the most admirable basilicas in Florence. It has been constructed using funding from wealthy families of Florence and Florentine Republic.
The remarkable feature of this cathedral is its sixteen chapels. Many of chapels, cenotaphs and tombs are decorated with frescoes by an architect, named as Giotto and his students. The Basilica of Santa Croce is an excellent example of Italian Gothic architecture situated on Piazza di Santa Croce. This church consists of many tombs such as tombs of famous artists including Ghiberti, Dante, Michelangelo, Alfieri and Galileo.
Santa Croce cathedral has traditionally been used for important religious and civic events as it is large enough to hold the crowd. This was also a place where Carnival and May Day festivals were celebrated. The cathedral contains various masterpieces such as – Cappella dei Pazzi, frescoes by Giotto, chapel built by Brunelleschi, Crucifix by Cimabue.
There is museum of the Opera di San Croce, where many Florentine masterpieces are displayed such as – Domenico Veneziano, Donatello, Orcagna, and Cimabue. In November 1966, the church was severley hit by the flood, and unfortunately most of the part of church was damaged. You can still see the marks of tide on walls and pillars of the cathedral.
It is best example of history and art of the Florence; so on tours to Italy don’t miss to visit Basilica of Santa Croce.
