Basilica of Santa Croce, also known as the 'Basilica of the Holy Cross, was built in 1294 at the end of the Byzantine period. It is a Franciscan dedicated building originally designed in the gothic style. The architect was Arnolfo di Cambio and over the following centuries many great artists made their mark on this historical landmark. http://www.santacroce.firenze.it/english/storia_arte/sguardo/

The basilica itself was wholly completed in 1453 with the final addition of Brunelleschi's inner cloister. It has a total of 16 chapels. The inner walls are decorated with frescoes from across the centuries, including work from Giotto. During the 16th century, the interior was renovated by Giorgio Vasari to comply with the Counter-Reformation.

The exterior facade was only completed in the late 19th century meaning its Neo-gothic influence is a stark contrast to the Byzantine and Renaissance influences held by the walls within. It was designed by a Jewish architect named Niccolo Matas. His heritage can be seen in the incorporation of the Star of David in the facade's composition, as well as the fact that he is buried under an arch and not within the walls.

Also notably, Michelangelo, Galileo and Dante are buried here, Michelangelo's tomb sculpted by Giorgio Vasari. Many other tombs and monuments are held in this basilica, the collection making it a Florence must-see. http://www.sacred-destinations.com/italy/florence-santa-croce

Opening Hours:

• Summer Mon - Sat 09:30 - 17:30; Sun 15:00 - 17:30
• Winter Mon -Sat 08:00 - 12:30 and 15:00 - 17:30; Sun 15:00 - 17:30

The adjoining Pazzi Chapel is open:

• Mar - Oct Thurs-Tues 10:00 - 19:00
• Nov - Feb Thurs-Tues 10:00 - 18:00 http://www.virtualtourist.com/travel/Europe/Italy/Tuscany/Florence-151105/Things_To_Do-Florence-Santa_Croce-BR-1.html

General Entrance Fee: €4.00

Directions: The basilica is situated only about 800m southeast from the Duomo. From the Duomo, take the Via Calzaiuoli down to the Piazza della Signoria; walk along the northern side of the Palazzo Vecchio (after the Neptune fountain) and continue into the Via dei Greci; continue until the Piazza di Santa Croce.http://www.virtualtourist.com/travel/Europe/Italy/Tuscany/Florence-151105/Things_To_Do-Florence-Santa_Croce-BR-1.html

The basilica is a beautiful building that manages to capture within its walls nearly 1000 years of history in artwork. There are also marks of Florence's history that can be seen on the walls. During the Counter-Reformation renovation, damage was received by the wall artworks and original altar. Also, in 1966 the Arno river flooded bringing water, mud and pollution into the church. Much of the artifacts received severe damage and it has taken decades to restore.