Experience the Florence Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral) in all its splendor with Santa Reparata’s crypt, the Duomo Terraces and the spectacular view from Brunelleschi’s magnificent Dome.
Meet your expert english speaking guide and begin the short stroll through the cradle of the Renaissance to the majestic Duomo: the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, often considered to be the symbol of Florence. Designed by Arnolfo da Cambio, the cathedral is the third largest church in the world, (after St. Peter’s in Rome and St. Paul’s in London) having been the largest upon its completion in the 15th century. Your guide will point out masterpieces such as Paolo Uccello’s colossal clockface, Vasari’s frescoes and Bandinelli’s marble choir before leading the way to the heart of the Cathedral where skilled restoration projects unveiled the testimony to early Christianity in Florence: the Crypt of Santa Reparata.
Then, begin climbing the staircase through a narrow and open air corridor. The reward for your efforts will be an incomparable view of the city from the Duomo Terraces on the cathedral rooftop. Feel as though you are floating atop the city landscape, with its ancient roofs and bell towers and the imposing Dome rising up just a few meters above your head. Take the most incredible pictures from this 32-metre-high (105 ft) panoramic point right in the middle of the old town.
Learn about the genius of Brunelleschi, how this massive self standing cathedral dome was built and how it still dominates the Florence skyline after 600 years despite earthquakes and the passage of time. If you’re up for more climbing, you can continue to the top of Brunelleschi’s Cupola (the Dome). Skipping the endless long lines, you will have the opportunity to reach the 91-metre-high (300 ft) panoramic and breathtaking view of the highest viewpoint.
Your ticket for this tour also provides you with the opportunity to tour the Cathedral Museum (Museo dell’Opera del Duomo) over the next 72 hours as well as the Baptistry and Giotto’s Bell Tower. This is by far the most comprehensive visit of the Cathedral complex of Florence, not to mention an astonishing journey in the world of Christianity.
