Basilica of Santa Croce Verified listing

The Basilica of Santa Croce is one of Florence’s most important Gothic churches, located in the city’s historic centre. Built in the late 13th century and completed in the 15th, it serves as the principal Franciscan church in Florence and is known as the “Temple of the Italian Glories” because it houses the tombs of many illustrious Italians, including Michelangelo, Galileo Galilei, Machiavelli, and Rossini. The church’s striking white and green marble façade, added in the 19th century, makes it a standout landmark.

Inside, visitors can admire stunning frescoes by Giotto and his followers, intricate stained glass windows, and impressive chapels commissioned by wealthy Florentine families. The basilica also contains a museum with religious art and artifacts, providing a deeper understanding of Florence’s artistic and cultural heritage. The peaceful cloisters and the leather school nearby offer additional layers of historical and educational interest.

Entry to Santa Croce requires a ticket, which grants access to the church, the museum, the cloisters, and the Pazzi Chapel. It is open to visitors daily, with specific hours depending on the season. Many tourists come to pay respects to the great figures buried here, to enjoy the art and architecture, or to attend concerts and events held within the basilica. It’s advisable to check opening times and ticket options ahead of your visit.