Brunelleschi's Dome Verified listing

Brunelleschi's Dome, crowning the Florence Cathedral (Santa Maria del Fiore), is a masterpiece of Renaissance engineering and one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Designed and constructed by Filippo Brunelleschi between 1420 and 1436, the dome was an architectural marvel of its time, featuring a double-shell structure and an innovative herringbone brick pattern that allowed it to be built without traditional wooden scaffolding. It remains the largest masonry dome in the world and a symbol of Florence’s artistic and scientific ingenuity.

Visitors to the dome can climb a steep, narrow staircase of over 450 steps to reach the summit, where they are rewarded with breath-taking views of Florence’s skyline, the Arno River, and the surrounding Tuscan hills. Along the climb, visitors pass through the dome’s interior, viewing frescoes painted by Giorgio Vasari and Federico Zuccari depicting the Last Judgment. The experience combines both physical challenge and artistic awe, making it a memorable highlight of any Florence trip.

Entry to climb the dome requires an advance ticket, as visitor numbers are limited to preserve the site and ensure safety. The ticket typically includes access to other parts of the cathedral complex, such as the Baptistery and Giotto’s Bell Tower. Comfortable footwear is recommended due to the climb’s physical demands and narrow spaces. It is best to book tickets ahead of time, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your place for this unforgettable architectural and cultural experience.