Basilica di Santa Maria Novella
Piazza di Santa Maria Novella (The Basilica, Belltower & 2 Obelisks)
| We booked this "Via degli Avelli" AirBnB (marked with an arrow) for the days in Florence just because of its proximity to a central transportation hub—not knowing it's actually next to the Basilica di Santa Maria Novella, a cornerstone of Florence's religious and cultural heritage. Out of our front door is Piazza di Santa Maria Novella where two obelisks can be seen; below our back window is Piazza dell'Unita Italiana with another obelisk (Obelisco dei Caduti delle Guerre d'Indipendenza)—quite a feast for the eyes of such an AirBnB place! |
Basilica di Santa Maria Novella
| The Basilica di Santa Maria Novella was built by the Dominican order in the 13th and 14th centuries. Its facade, designed by Leon Battista Alberti and completed in 1470, is considered one of the most important works of Florentine Renaissance architecture. The basilica's interior is also notable for its Gothic architecture and numerous works of art, including Masaccio's landmark work Trinity and frescoes by Ghirlandaio. |
| The Piazza di Santa Maria Novella was originally designed as a space for people to gather before and after church services, but it has since become a popular tourist destination. The square is home to several important landmarks, including the basilica, the Ospedale di San Paolo (a hospital dated back to 1211-1222), and the two obelisks that were added in the 16th century. |
Basilica di Santa Maria Novella (a)
Basilica di Santa Maria Novella (north view)
Eastern Perimeter Wall of the Basilica
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