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Italy is a country unlike any other in Europe, and there are few regions as venerated in tourist circles as Tuscany. The Tuscan area has some of the finest scenery, culture and cuisine anywhere in the country, and like much of Italy, it also boasts some spectacular churches. The Duomo Santa Maria del Fiore is perhaps the most beautiful and celebrated anywhere in Florence and Tuscany. Tours of the building take in the architecture and the fantastic history of the church and allow visitors to see just why it is one of the top attractions anywhere in the region. Coming armed with a bit of historical information is a great way of enhancing your visit! The Construction Started back in the thirteenth century, the architectural dream of the Duomo was that of Arnolfo di Cambio, who witnessed the initial construction and realised a large proportion of the impressive cathedral. However, it was the work of Filippo Brunelleschi that makes the cathedral as spellbinding as it is. His fifteenth century dome design has made the church into an iconic landmark. Both of these influential designers are immortalised in statues outside of the building. UNESCO Heritage Like a large portion of the centre of Florence, the Duomo and it’s connected buildings are listed as a UNESCO world heritage site. Brunelleschi’s Cupola The famous dome was the effort of Filippo Brunelleschi, who won a contest to design the unfinished cupola in the 1400s. His mathematical work was integral to the dome’s finished design and the uniqueness of the creative aspects meant that a number of new tools and techniques had to be invented! Baptistery and Campanile The baptistery is one of the oldest religious sites in Florence and Tuscany. Tours reveal that this ornate building is over a thousand years old and is still a venue that conducts baptisms. Full of artistic design features, it’s one of the standout sites of any visit to the region. The bell tower is likewise a fascinating part of any trip to Florence, and the views from the top are as good as any view you’re likely to have of the city. The Interior The interior of the cathedral, as well as the bell tower and Baptistery are home to some of the finest artworks that you’ll find in any religious building. With paintings by famed artists and sculptures that capture the artistic styles of the church’s rich past, art lovers will be just as enthused by the Duomo as the architecture fans. Making the Pilgrimage Now that you have a bit of information about the fantastic cathedral, you’ll be ready for your visit. Like much of Florence and Tuscany, tours with a small group and an impressively knowledgeable tour guide can make all the difference to a trip. Seeing the Duomo with a local guide will really make it stand out as one of the highlights of any holiday A visit to this Florentine beauty is the highlight of many Florence and Tuscany tours, and the remarkable history of the place will sure to captivate you and get you excited to see more of the fantastic city and surrounding region. The great thing about Florence and Tuscany? Tours go year round as there is never a bad time to see this extraordinary place. Author Plate Mauro Bramante is the Director of WalkAbout Florence, an independent business offering unforgettable Florence and Tuscany tours including Vintage Vespa tours, cooking classes and wine safaris. Wherever and whatever you want to explore Mauro's company promises excitement, adventure and above all, fun. If you're keen to experience the magic of Italy with the help of some passionate and knowledgeable tour guides, look no further than WalkAbout Florence for your next getaway.
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