The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, also known as 'Il Duomo', is possibly the most recognisable landmark in Florence. On it's own the cathedral represents much of the history of this city. It is the third and last cathedral in Florence. It is also the third largest cathedral in the world, the largest being Saint Peter's in Rome.http://www.operaduomo.firenze.it/english/luoghi/cattedrale_1.asp

The most famous and notable part of it's construction is the 'Duomo' or the dome, designed by Brunelleschi and constructed during the 14th and 15th centuries. Without the modern technology and engineering we have today, it was truly a feat to achieve such design. At 45.5m in diameter, it is impressively vast. The interior of the dome is decorated with large frescoes that have been fully restored, as well as 14 stained glass windows. http://www.arch.mcgill.ca/prof/sijpkes/arch374/winter2001/sfarfa/ensayo1.htm

Its construction was only finally completed during the 1800's meaning it has seen many centuries of innovation and redesign. It encaptures much of Florence's history both structurally and artistically.

Cathedral Opening Hours:

• Mon - Wed 10:00 - 17:00
• Fri 10:00 - 17:00
• Thurs 10:00 - 15:30
• Sat 10:00 - 16:45 (first Sat each month 10:00 - 15:30)
• Sun 13:30 - 16:45
• Closed January 6th (Epiphany Sunday).

Entrance to the cathedral itself is free of charge. However please note that here, as in all religious places of Italy, you are required to dress appropriately. This means no shorts or sleeveless shirts.

Cupola (Dome) Opening Hours:

• Mon - Fri 08:30 - 19:00
• Sat 08:30 - 17:40
• Sundays CLOSED http://www.iexplore.com/cityguides/Italy/Florence/Where+to+Go

Entrance Fee: 8 Euros

There are 453 steps to the top of the cupola (dome) in the cathedral. Only attempt this if you are fit and healthy as this is a distance and elevation. There are also narrow passageways and low ceilings to beware of. But the view from the top is stunning. A 360 degree view of the city well worth the climb, especially on a clear day.

Part of the way up there is the opportunity to get a closer look at the frescoes painted on the dome's interior. The vibrancy and detail of the colours and artwork can be much better appreciated from here.

There is an audio guide available for a fee of about 4 Euros. Or take the full guided tour for 11 Euros including entrance to the cupola. Tours are 45 - 60mins in duration.

Getting There: You can take any number of buses to the Cathedral as it is located in the centre of the city. Look for the Piazza del Duomo.

• Bus: 1, 6, 7, 11, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 23.http://www.planetware.com/florence/cathedral-of-santa-maria-del-fiore-i-to-fd.htm