Basilica of Santa Croce

Things to Do in Basilica of Santa Croce

Visit the Tombs of Italian Legends

Walk through the basilica and find the elaborate tombs of Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli. Each one is designed with beautiful sculptures that show what they were known for---like Astronomy and Geometry for Galileo.

Find Dante's Monument

You'll see a large structure that looks like Dante's tomb---but it's not. It's actually a cenotaph, which means his body isn't there. Dante is buried in Ravenna, but this monument honors his memory in Santa Croce.

Admire Giotto's Frescoes and Donatello's Work

Look for the famous frescoes by Giotto in the Bardi Chapel, and the wooden crucifix by Donatello (if not under restoration). Even if part of it is under renovation, the details that are visible are still worth seeing.

Tour the Museum and Cloisters

Right next to the church is the Museo dell'Opera di Santa Croce. It has amazing pieces like Cimabue's Crucifixion, which was damaged in a flood but still powerful to see. Don't miss the peaceful cloisters and the elegant Pazzi Chapel, designed in the Renaissance style.

Explore the Side Chapels

Some chapels, like the Baroncelli Chapel, have unique artwork you won't see anywhere else. These include some of the earliest night scenes ever painted in Western art.

Tips Before Visiting the Basilica of Santa Croce

Renovations are ongoing, so expect some areas to be blocked by scaffolding or lifts---especially near the ceiling and in certain chapels.

The Dante monument is not a real tomb. He's buried in Ravenna, but this spot honors him with a grand tribute.

Be respectful as you walk---many real tombs are underfoot, and people are buried beneath the elaborate floor slabs.

Learn a little history before you go! Stories like Michelangelo's body being smuggled back to Florence or Galileo being denied a proper burial make the visit even more interesting.

Popular Attractions Near Basilica of Santa Croce

Piazza de Santa Croce -- Just outside the basilica (0 minutes)

This open square is full of life. It's known for local festivals and the historic Calcio Fiorentino game---a mix of soccer and wrestling played in traditional costume.

Palazzo dell'Antella -- 1 minute walk

Located along the square, this building has faded but still fascinating frescoes. These murals once showed images of virtues and divine beauty.

Palazzo Cocchi Serristori -- 2 minutes away

Found at the opposite end of the square, this elegant building now holds court offices, but the architecture itself is worth a quick look.