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Church of the Holy Cross: Vinci's Spiritual Heart

Discover Vinci's Church of the Holy Cross, where Leonardo da Vinci was likely baptized, and admire its art and architecture.

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The Church of the Holy Cross in Vinci, Italy, is a beautiful church with a rich history. It is believed that Leonardo da Vinci was baptized here, and today visitors can admire the ancient baptismal font and works of art from the 16th and 18th centuries.

A brief summary to Church of the Holy Cross

  • Via Giorgio La Pira, 1, Vinci, Metropolitan City of Florence, 50059, IT
  • +39057156033

Local tips

  • Take time to explore the surrounding area of Vinci, with its charming cafes and local shops.
  • Visit the Leonardian Museum and Leonardo's birthplace to learn more about the life and work of Leonardo da Vinci.
  • Walk the Strada Verde, the ancient path connecting Vinci to Anchiano, through vineyards and olive groves.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Piazza Leonardo da Vinci, walk northeast on Via della Libertà. Turn left onto Via Giorgio La Pira. The Church of the Holy Cross will be on your right at number 1.

  • Public Transport

    Take a train from Mugello to Empoli. From Empoli, take a bus towards Vinci. The bus will drop you off at the center of Vinci. From there, walk northeast on Via della Libertà, then turn left onto Via Giorgio La Pira. The Church of the Holy Cross will be on your right. Bus tickets cost around €1-€3.

  • Driving

    From the center of Mugello, head southeast on Via di Giotto toward Via della Repubblica. Continue on the SS65 road, following the signs for Vinci. Merge onto Via Montalbano, and follow it until you reach Vinci. Once in Vinci, turn right onto Via Giorgio La Pira. The Church of the Holy Cross will be on your left. Parking can be tricky, especially in high season. Consider parking in one of the free car parks at the entrance to town and walking. If you park closer to the center, be prepared to pay hourly rates.

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Discover more about Church of the Holy Cross

Located in the heart of Vinci, the Church of the Holy Cross (Chiesa di Santa Croce) is more than just a religious building; it's a repository of history, art, and local pride. While the church's origins trace back to the 13th century, its current neo-Renaissance appearance is largely thanks to a restoration in the early 20th century. The church holds a special place in the hearts of the locals, as it is believed to be the place where Leonardo da Vinci was baptized. Inside, you can find the ancient marble baptismal font where Leonardo da Vinci was likely baptized. The chapel of the Baptistery also features a sculptural cycle dedicated to the History of Salvation by Cecco Bonanotte, added in 2011. The church's interior showcases a three-nave layout, complete with columns and Corinthian capitals. Art enthusiasts can admire works such as the 16th-century Nativity of the Virgin by Francesco Brina, the Virgin of the Rosary by Matteo Rosselli, and the Miracle of San Biagio, attributed to Gaetano Piattoli.

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