The Center of Attention

The most prominent structure in Florence has to be the Duomo, technically called Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore. Almost everywhere you turn you can see the giant dome towering over Florence. We've attended mass here, toured the inside, and climbed the dome. You can't help but make this structure an integral part of your stay. Construction of the Cathedral started in 1296 and lasted 170 years (although the facade was actually not finished until the 1800's). The dome was by far the largest in the world when finished, and would remain that way until St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican City was finished, 150 years later. The fresco covering the interior of the dome, is almost 40,000 sq. ft. and remains the largest fresco painting in the world. It took 11 years to complete and was worked on by several prominent artists. Here's a small taste of all the Duomo shots.