The Majestic Basilica of Santa Croce: A Testament to Art and History
Explore Florence's Basilica of Santa Croce: A Gothic architectural gem housing the tombs of Italy's greatest artists and thinkers.
A brief summary to Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence
- Piazza di Santa Croce, 16, Florence, Metropolitan City of Florence, 50122, IT
- +390552008789
- Visit website
- Monday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 12:30 pm-5:45 pm
The Basilica of Santa Croce, a stunning Gothic masterpiece located in Florence, is more than just a church; it is a veritable pantheon of Italian culture and history. Known as the "Temple of Italian Glories," this basilica houses the tombs of many illustrious figures, including Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli. Its exterior boasts a striking white and green facade adorned with intricate details, while the interior captivates visitors with its beautiful frescoes and impressive chapels, each telling its own story through art. The grandeur of the basilica is matched by its serene atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for reflection amidst your travels. As you wander through this historic site, take time to admire the mesmerizing artwork that decorates the walls and ceilings, including masterpieces by Giotto and Donatello. The adjoining museum further enriches your experience, showcasing artifacts and artworks that shed light on the rich heritage of the Franciscan order and the city itself. The Basilica of Santa Croce is not just a place of worship but a vibrant part of Florence's landscape, drawing in tourists from around the globe to witness its beauty and learn about its storied past. Visiting the Basilica is an opportunity to engage with the artistic and historical legacy of Florence. Its strategic location in the heart of the city makes it easily accessible, allowing you to combine your visit with explorations of the nearby piazzas and shops. As you plan your visit, consider the basilica's opening hours, as they vary throughout the week, ensuring you make the most of your time at this iconic landmark.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the historical significance and artistic details of the basilica.
- Don't miss the adjoining museum, which offers deeper insights into the basilica's rich history.
- Check the schedule for special events or concerts that may take place in the basilica.
Getting There
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Car
From Valdarno, take the A1 Autostrada (motorway) towards Florence. Depending on your starting point in Valdarno, you will usually access the A1 from the SR69 or other local roads. After approximately 30-40 minutes of driving, take the exit for Firenze Sud. Once you exit, follow the signs for the city center (Centro). As you approach Florence, look for signs directing you to the Basilica of Santa Croce, which is located in Piazza di Santa Croce. Be aware that parking can be limited in the city center and may incur costs, so consider using a nearby parking garage and then walking to the basilica.
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Train
If you prefer public transportation, you can take a train from a nearby station in Valdarno, such as Montevarchi or Figline Valdarno, to Florence Santa Maria Novella station (Firenze SMN). The train journey typically takes around 30-45 minutes. Once you arrive at Santa Maria Novella, exit the station and walk to the bus stop or take a taxi. If you choose to walk, it’s about a 20-minute walk from the station to the Basilica of Santa Croce. Alternatively, you can take bus line 14 or 23 from the station to the stop ‘Santa Croce’ which is close to the basilica.
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Bus
For a direct bus option, check local bus services that may operate routes from Valdarno to Florence. Look for the 'SITA' or 'Tiemme' bus services. The journey may take approximately 1 hour or more depending on traffic and specific stops. When you arrive at the bus station in Florence, you can either walk or take a taxi to reach the Basilica of Santa Croce. The walk is around 15-20 minutes.
Attractions Nearby to Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence
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Tomb of Galileo Galilei
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Michelangelo Buonarroti Tomb
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Monument to Dante Alighieri
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Piazza di Santa Croce
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Pazzi Chapel
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Casa Museo di Piero Bargellini
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Convento di Santa Croce
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Tomb of Leonardo Bruni
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Casa Vasari
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Palazzo Corsini-Serristori
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Florence National Central Library
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Giardino di Borgo Allegri
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Casa Buonarroti
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Via S. Giuseppe
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Palazzo Corsini ai Tintori
Landmarks nearby to Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence
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Tomb of Niccolo Machiavelli
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Santa Croce 14 - Palazzo Gargiolli
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Palazzo dell'Antella
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Porta San Niccolò
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Palazzo Vecchio
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Stefano Bardini Museum
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Torre di Arnolfo
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Fountain of Neptune
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Equestrian statue of Cosimo I
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Museo Galileo