Basilica of Santa Croce

Religious spot

★ 4.8 (5K+ reviews) • 33K+ booked

Step into the heart of Florence and discover the awe-inspiring Basilica of Santa Croce, a magnificent testament to art, faith, and history. Nestled in the vibrant city of Florence, Italy, this monumental complex is a masterpiece of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, known as the 'Temple of the Italian Glories.' It serves not only as a place of worship but also as a monumental tribute to Italy's most illustrious figures. Spanning over 12,000 square meters, Santa Croce is a treasure trove of art, culture, and history, offering a captivating journey through centuries of Florentine and Renaissance heritage. With its stunning frescoes and the final resting places of legends like Michelangelo and Galileo, Santa Croce offers an unforgettable journey through art and history. This unique hub where spirituality, beauty, and memory intertwine is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the soul of Italy.

Piazza di Santa Croce, 16, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

Overview

Things to do

Hotels

4.8 /5

5K+ reviews

Read all reviews

Wong ****

11 Sep

The process is simple: after placing your order, go to the meeting point at the designated time and look for staff wearing yellow vests. They will give you your tickets and direct you to the queue. This package doesn't really include any services; I bought it on Klook simply because I couldn't get tickets on the official website. It was a bit more expensive, but the advantage of this package is that you can visit the attractions at your own pace within 3 days. Only the church tower climb has a specific time slot; you can arrange the other attractions yourself. The weather in September was nice and cool, and it was worth climbing to the top to enjoy the breeze and scenery. The museums have many exhibits, but I personally don't have much interest or understanding of art and historical culture.

Klook User

10 Sep

very nicely organized meeting point and quick access via the special skip the line entrance.

C *

8 Sep

professional guide. learn a lot. best is can skip the line and save a lot of time in exploring the area

클룩 회원

7 Sep

The audio guide really enhanced my museum visit. The overall museum overview and artwork descriptions were all excellent. It was also easy to navigate since the guide followed the exhibition order. Very satisfied!!

Klook User

2 Sep

This was my second time visiting this gallery, and honestly, I'd happily go a third time! I visited on a Sunday, and there were no lines. I think that's thanks to the e-ticket. I first approached the woman outside, who exchanged my e-ticket for a paper one, and everything went quickly and smoothly. I got the audio guide in Russian. It's not super detailed, but it's quite decent. Important note: you need to leave your passport or ID for the audio guide, and they only return it at the end. I didn't know that... luckily, I happened to have my passport with me. It took me exactly 2 hours to visit the entire gallery with a short break and a trip to the restroom. I didn't stop for too long at each painting, so in my opinion, 2 hours is the optimal time. If you want to examine each work carefully, allow 3-4 hours. My impressions are only positive.

Klook User

2 Sep

These tickets were more expensive than the direct ones but turned out very worth it because I decided to change out visit day meant we could get a refund. We booked again for the very next day and we were still about to get in for the 8:15 - 8:30 time slot which was no longer available on the official website.

Tam ********

17 Aug

Booking Florence Cathedral tickets through Klook was incredibly convenient. The guide was professional and engaging, and we avoided the long queues. Stepping inside the Cathedral, I was deeply impressed by the magnificent dome and exquisite frescoes. Climbing to the top, the panoramic view of Florence's red-tiled roofs was spectacular and unforgettable. The whole experience was relaxed and enjoyable.

MonaLiza *******

6 Aug

Reasonable and good way to explore the main spots of the city. It will allow you to absorb the general feel of the area and will let you explore specific interests in your own

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Remarkable Landmarks and Must-Visit Sights

Giotto's Frescoes

Step into a world of vibrant storytelling with Giotto's frescoes in the Bardi and Peruzzi Chapels. These masterpieces, though currently under restoration, offer a glimpse into the transformative art of the 14th century. Giotto and his pupils have adorned the chapels with scenes that capture the essence of religious narratives, making them a must-see for art enthusiasts visiting Santa Croce.

Tombs of Italian Legends

Embark on a journey through history as you visit the tombs of Italy's most illustrious figures at the Basilica of Santa Croce. Here, the final resting places of cultural and scientific giants like Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli await. This sacred space serves as a pantheon of Italian heritage, celebrating the enduring legacies of those who have shaped the world with their genius.

Pazzi Chapel

Experience the epitome of Renaissance architecture at the Pazzi Chapel, designed by the legendary Filippo Brunelleschi. This architectural gem, nestled within the Basilica of Santa Croce, offers a serene escape into a world of harmonious design. With its elegant simplicity and timeless beauty, the chapel stands as a testament to the ingenuity of Renaissance artistry.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Santa Croce is not just a basilica; it's a cornerstone of Florence's rich history and culture. As you wander through its halls, you'll feel the echoes of the past, where artists and patrons once gathered, driven by devotion and civic pride. The historical archive here is a treasure trove, with documents that take you back to the 14th century, offering a glimpse into the lives and times of Italy's greatest minds and artists. This place is a testament to Florence's role as a cradle of the Renaissance, making it a must-visit for history buffs and art lovers alike.

Conservation and Restoration

The ongoing conservation efforts at Santa Croce are nothing short of remarkable. These initiatives ensure that the basilica's artistic and historical treasures are preserved for future generations. As a visitor, you can appreciate the beauty and craftsmanship of this iconic site, knowing that it is being carefully maintained for years to come.

Architectural Marvel

Prepare to be awestruck by the architectural splendor of Santa Croce. This basilica is a stunning blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Gothic Revival styles. The neo-Gothic façade, designed by Niccolò Matas, and the bell tower, completed in 1842, are just a few highlights of this architectural masterpiece. It's a visual feast that will leave you marveling at the creativity and skill of its creators.

Living Heritage

Santa Croce is more than just a historical site; it's a living museum. With nearly 4,000 works of art, this basilica allows you to experience art in its original setting, fulfilling its intended purpose. It's a unique opportunity to connect with the past and witness the enduring legacy of artistic expression.

Renaissance Masters

Step into the world of Renaissance masters at Santa Croce. The complex houses masterpieces by giants like Brunelleschi and Donatello, offering a rare glimpse into the artistic innovations that defined an era. It's a journey through time that art enthusiasts will find truly inspiring.

Basilica of Santa Croce