Santa Maria del Fiore is an architectural masterpiece designed by Arnolfo di Cambio. The intricate exterior is Gothic-themed; the faced is decorated by green and pink shades of marble. It is one of the largest cathedrals in the world and the largest brick dome ever constructed. The interior space is vast. It also contains paintings spanning centuries; stained glass windows depicting the old and new testament; busts of Giotto and Brunelleschi; statue of Niccolo da Tolentino and funerary monument of of John Hawkwood. The church is a 5-minute walk from our hotel. We attended mass here and it was a unique experience, I must say. |