Cathedral Interior

Overview

Stepping inside Florence Cathedral, also known as Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, is an encounter with both monumental scale and profound history. While its exterior boasts vibrant marble and intricate detailing, the interior often surprises visitors with its initial sobriety and vastness, a reflection of the austere spiritual ideals of medieval Florence. This immense space, one of the largest churches in Christendom at the time of its completion, spans 153 meters in length and reaches 90 meters high from the floor to the lantern opening. The main body of the Cathedral offers free entry, allowing everyone to experience its awe-inspiring dimensions and the artistry that lies within, particularly the famed dome and its captivating frescoes.

History & Cultural Background

The site where Florence Cathedral now stands has been a place of worship for centuries, originally home to the smaller Santa Reparata church from around the 6th century. By the late 13th century, with Florence's growing prominence, a grander structure was deemed necessary. Construction began in 1296 under the design of Arnolfo di Cambio, who envisioned a colossal edifice. The project was later expanded by Francesco Talenti in the mid-14th century, shaping the Gothic basilica plan with its triple nave and extensive dimensions. The crowning achievement, however, came in the 15th century with Filippo Brunelleschi's revolutionary dome, an engineering marvel completed in 1436 that dramatically shifted architectural possibilities towards the Renaissance. The Cathedral's interior also reflects a civic pride, with artwork commemorating Florentine 'illustrious men' alongside its religious program.

What Makes It Special

The true heart of the Florence Cathedral interior lies within its iconic features, each telling a story of artistic innovation and cultural ambition.

• Brunelleschi's Dome: An architectural masterpiece, its double-shell construction was groundbreaking, built without traditional wooden scaffolding. Inside, the dome is adorned with Giorgio Vasari and Federico Zuccari's immense fresco cycle, 'The Last Judgement.'
• 'The Last Judgement' Fresco: Covering 3,600 square meters, this vast fresco, depicting angels, saints, demons, and the resurrected, was begun by Vasari in 1572 and completed by Zuccari in 1579 after Vasari's death. It is organized into concentric levels and eight segments, illustrating theological themes from the Apocalypse.
• Stained-Glass Windows: Forty-four magnificent stained-glass windows illuminate the interior, many based on designs by Renaissance masters such as Donatello, Lorenzo Ghiberti, and Paolo Uccello. These windows depict biblical narratives and saints, filling the space with vibrant light.
• Paolo Uccello's Clock: A unique and striking feature is the liturgical clock on the counter-façade, painted by Paolo Uccello in 1443. It tells time in an ancient Florentine manner, with 24 hours counted from the sunset of the previous day, featuring four enigmatic heads of saints at its corners.
• Equestrian Monuments: On the left wall, two large frescoed equestrian portraits by Paolo Uccello (John Hawkwood) and Andrea del Castagno (Niccolò da Tolentino) honor Florentine mercenary captains, serving as a testament to the Republic's desire to celebrate its military leaders in an enduring, yet less costly, form than sculpture.
• Bandinelli's Marble Choir: Although later transformed, elements of Baccio Bandinelli's grand 16th-century marble choir, designed to encompass the high altar, still contribute to the sacred space.
• Luca della Robbia's Sacristy Reliefs: The sacristies are adorned with beautiful glazed terracotta bas-reliefs by Luca della Robbia, adding a touch of delicate artistry to the more functional spaces.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The interior of the Cathedral holds fascinating narratives. The 'Last Judgement' fresco, for instance, was commissioned by Grand Duke Cosimo I de' Medici, who tasked Giorgio Vasari with its design, with iconographic guidance from Vincenzo Borghini. After Vasari's passing, Federico Zuccari completed the work, a task that drew some criticism from Florentines who found Zuccari's style less impactful than Vasari's vision or the sheer brilliance of Brunelleschi's dome it adorned. Brunelleschi himself was granted the rare honor of being buried within the Cathedral's crypt, a tribute to his genius, particularly revolutionary for an architect, who were often considered mere artisans. The Cathedral's name, Santa Maria del Fiore, meaning 'Saint Mary of the Flower,' is a nod to the city's emblem, the lily, and its historic designation as 'the city of flowers.' Its construction truly embodied the wealth and power of 13th and 14th-century Florence, setting a standard for future architectural endeavors across Europe.

Visitor Perspective

Accessing the main interior of Florence Cathedral is free, providing an incredible opportunity to marvel at its scale and artistic treasures. However, be prepared for potentially long queues, especially during peak tourist seasons. For a deeper experience, tickets are required to climb Brunelleschi's Dome, Giotto's Bell Tower, visit the Baptistery, the Crypt of Santa Reparata, and the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo, which houses many original works of art from the complex. When visiting, respectful attire is essential: shoulders and knees must be covered, and bulky bags are not permitted. Photography is generally allowed without flash, but selfie sticks and tripods are usually prohibited to ensure a serene experience for all. Allow ample time to simply stand, look up, and absorb the history and grandeur of this extraordinary place.