The
Duomo, or Cathedral of Florence, is set right
in the heart of Florence. Dominating the city
with its massive dome, it is actually the fourth
largest cathedral in the world. Designed in 1334
by city architect Giotto, the main construction
work was completed in 1359, although it took almost
two centuries to finally finish everything. 600
years on, it is still the tallest building in
Florence and one of the city's most famous landmarks.
The enormous dome was designed by Brunelleschi
and was a revolutionary achievement, as it was
the largest dome of its time to be built without
scaffolding, with the inner shell providing a
platform for the timbers that supported the outside
structure. There are 463 steps to the top of the
dome where visitors can enjoy some of the best
panoramic views of the city. Other highlights
include a cavernous interior, many wonderful frescoes,
detailed ceiling mosaics and stained-glass windows
created by some of the great artists of the time,
such as Vasari, Zuccari, Donatello, Uccello and
Ghiberti. |
