The Piazza del Duomo is the historical and architectural center of Florence. Some of the most important buildings of the Renaissance are grouped around the square - above all the world-famous Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore with its imposing dome by Filippo Brunelleschi.
This monumental building complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an absolute must for any visit to Florence. On this page you will find a compact overview of all the highlights around Piazza del Duomo.
Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore - often simply called the "Duomo" - is the impressive centerpiece of Florence's cathedral square. Construction began in 1296 and was continued over the centuries by various architects, including Giotto and Arnolfo di Cambio. The cathedral is one of the largest places of worship in the world.
Visitors enter the cathedral through the main portal on the west façade. Entry to the nave is free of charge. Inside, you can expect a clear, Gothic spatial effect with colorful stained glass windows, an ornate marble floor and one of the largest painted interior dome frescoes in the world.
Brunelleschi's dome
The world-famous dome was built between 1420 and 1436 by Filippo Brunelleschi - without scaffolding and using revolutionary techniques at the time. It is not only a symbol of the Renaissance, but also a masterpiece of engineering.
The ascent to the dome takes place over more than 450 narrow steps and leads through two vaulted shells that stabilize the dome. On the way, you will enjoy spectacular views of the interior of the building and finally stand directly beneath the monumental Last Judgement.
Once at the top, a breathtaking panoramic view of Florence, the Tuscan hills and, of course, the cathedral square itself awaits you.
Please note: Access to the dome is only possible with a valid ticket and time slot reservation. It pays to book early - seats are often sold out days in advance.
Giotto's bell tower (Campanile)
The Campanile was designed by Giotto di Bondone, who is also known as a painter and founder of the Italian Renaissance. The tower is 84.7 m high and is completely clad in colorful marble, which perfectly matches the façade of the cathedral.
The ascent involves climbing exactly 414 steps. There is no elevator, but halfway up and at the top there are several platforms from which you can look through the battlements over the cathedral square and the rooftops of Florence. The view of the dome opposite is spectacular - you can see it here from a perspective you would never experience from the ground.
Baptistery of San Giovanni
The octagonal baptistery is one of the oldest buildings in the city - with origins dating back to the 11th century. It is dedicated to St. John the Baptist, the patron saint of Florence. From the outside, the building looks rather plain, but is enhanced by the famous bronze doors.
Inside, the full effect of the baptistery unfolds: a magnificent mosaic ceiling with Byzantine influence dominates the room. It depicts the Last Judgement, angels, saints and a central figure of Christ. The light falls through small windows and lends the interior an almost mystical atmosphere.
Museo dell'Opera del Duomo
The modern museum houses the original works of art that once adorned the cathedral, the Campanile and the Baptistery. Here you will find sculptures by Donatello, Michelangelo, Arnolfo di Cambio and many other masters. One of the most famous exhibits is Michelangelo's unfinished "Pietà Bandini", which the artist created for his own tomb.
A special highlight of the museum is the reconstruction of the original cathedral façade as it might have looked in the Middle Ages. This reconstruction, combined with genuine original parts, allows visitors to travel back in time through the building history of the cathedral complex.
The museum also offers multimedia stations, rest areas and is completely barrier-free - ideal for an in-depth visit regardless of the weather.
Santa Reparata
Below the cathedral is the archaeological excavation of the former church of Santa Reparata, which was built in the 4th century. It was the main church in Florence for over 1,000 years before it was replaced by the construction of the current cathedral. The excavations were uncovered in the 1960s and offer a unique insight into the early history of the city.
Here you can still see the remains of mosaic floors, capitals and altar foundations. Several bishops' tombs and a memorial slab for the consecration of the church were also discovered. Particularly impressive: the change in architectural styles - from Roman to early Christian to Gothic - can be physically traced here.
Access is directly from inside the cathedral and is included in the Brunelleschi Pass.
Tickets & visiting options
Access to many areas of the cathedral complex is only possible with a valid ticket. There are various ticket types - the best option for most visitors is the Brunelleschi Pass.
Brunelleschi Pass - all highlights with one ticket
The Brunelleschi Pass gives you access to all five main attractions on Cathedral Square:
- Ascent to Brunelleschi's dome (with time slot)
- Visit to the cathedral incl. Santa Reparata
- Ascent to the bell tower (Campanile)
- Entrance to the baptistery
- Admission to the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo
Validity: 3 consecutive calendar days
Reservation required: For the dome ascent (directly when booking)
Price: from 30,00 EUR
Recommendation: Book the Brunelleschi Pass online in advance, as the dome time slots in particular are often booked up quickly.