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St Mark's English Church: A Pre-Raphaelite Sanctuary in Florence

Discover Pre-Raphaelite art and Anglican heritage at St Mark's English Church, a cultural gem in Florence's Oltrarno district.

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St Mark's English Church, located on Via Maggio in Florence, is an Anglican church with a rich history dating back to 1881. Founded as a center for Anglo-Catholic worship, the church boasts a unique Pre-Raphaelite interior and continues to serve a vibrant English-speaking community.

A brief summary to St Mark's English Church, Florence

Local tips

  • Check the church's website for the schedule of services, concerts, and other events.
  • Take time to admire the Pre-Raphaelite interior, including the floral motifs and stained glass windows.
  • Visit the cabinet at the back of the church to see artifacts saved from the 1966 flood.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    St Mark's English Church is located on Via Maggio in the Oltrarno neighborhood, a short walk from many central Florence landmarks. From Ponte Santa Trinita, walk south along Via Maggio; the church is located on the left side of the street. From Palazzo Pitti, walk north on Via Maggio; the church will be on your right.

  • Public Transport

    The closest bus stops to Via Maggio are Santo Spirito and Piazza San Felice. Several bus lines serve these stops, including C3, C4, 11, and 6B. A single ticket costs €1.70 and is valid for 90 minutes. Tickets can be purchased at tobacconists, newsstands, or via the TabNet app.

  • Taxi

    Taxis can be found at taxi ranks near major sights such as the Santa Maria Novella train station, Piazza della Repubblica, and Palazzo Pitti. You can also call for a taxi. The base fare is around €3.30 during the day, with a price per km of approximately €1.10. A short taxi ride within the city center will likely cost around €8-€10.

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Discover more about St Mark's English Church, Florence

Nestled on Via Maggio, in the Oltrarno district of Florence, St Mark's English Church is more than just a place of worship; it's a cultural and artistic landmark. Founded in 1881 by the Reverend Charles Tooth, it served as a haven for Anglo-Catholic members of the Anglican Church seeking a spiritual home in Florence. The church occupies a 15th-century palazzo, its Renaissance facade hinting at the treasures within. The interior is a stunning example of Pre-Raphaelite design, with floral motifs and intricate decorations that create a serene and inspiring atmosphere. John Roddam Spencer Stanhope, a Pre-Raphaelite artist, designed and created the wall and ceiling decorations at his own expense. The church was damaged by the 1966 flood of the Arno, which resulted in the loss of some of the original stencil work. Today, St Mark's welcomes visitors of all backgrounds to experience its beauty and participate in its diverse activities. In addition to regular services, the church hosts concerts, opera performances, and cultural events, fostering a strong sense of community. St Mark's stands as a testament to the enduring connection between Florence and the English-speaking world, offering a space for worship, reflection, and artistic expression.

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