Designed
and built by Brunelleschi between 1419 and 1469,
the San Lorenzo Basilica is widely regarded as
one of the city's purest Renaissance churches
and was the very first church in this style to
be built in the city. The eastern facade has no
decoration and the antique brickwork is clearly
visible, although inside there is plenty to admire,
including bronze pulpits designed by Donatello,
who is buried in one of the chapels, a simply
stunning staircase built by Michelangelo in the
Laurenziana Library and the richly decorated Medici
Chapels. Next to the basilica are some very atmospheric
palazzos, with interior courtyards and a busy
central market.
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