Piazza Santa Maria Novella
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By Dion Protani
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Latest update: 12 September 2023
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The Piazza Santa Maria Novella is one of the most beautiful squares in Florence. The northern end of the irregularly-shaped square is dominated by the Basilica di Santa Maria Novella from which the Piazza takes its name.
Aside from being one of the most important meeting places in the city, it's also the home of the Museo del Novecento at its south end. |
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Piazza Santa Maria Novella is a historic square located in the heart of Florence, Italy. It is named after the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella, a magnificent church that stands at one end of the square. The basilica is one of the most important churches in Florence and is renowned for its stunning Gothic and Renaissance architecture.
The square has a long and rich history that dates back to the 13th century. It was originally designed as an open space in front of the Santa Maria Novella church, serving as a meeting place for the religious and political activities of the city. Over the centuries, the square evolved and became a hub of Florentine life, with various buildings and palaces constructed around it, representing different architectural styles and periods.
Architectural Highlights: The main attraction of Piazza Santa Maria Novella is, of course, the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella itself. Its facade is a masterpiece of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, adorned with intricate marble work and decorative elements. Inside the church, visitors can admire stunning frescoes and artworks by artists such as Masaccio, Giotto, and Ghirlandaio.
On the opposite end of the square stands the Palazzo Strozzi, a magnificent Renaissance palace that once belonged to the influential Strozzi family. Today, the palace hosts art exhibitions and cultural events.
Tourist Information: Location: Piazza Santa Maria Novella is conveniently located near the main train station of Florence, Santa Maria Novella Train Station. It is within walking distance of many other major attractions in the city, making it a central starting point for exploring Florence.
Santa Maria Novella Train Station: As one of the main train stations in Florence, Santa Maria Novella Train Station provides easy access to the square for travelers arriving from other cities in Italy.
Restaurants and Cafes: The square is surrounded by cafes and restaurants, offering visitors a chance to relax and enjoy the bustling atmosphere of Florence.
Shopping: Via de' Tornabuoni, a prestigious shopping street known for luxury boutiques, is just a short walk from the square.
Florence City Pass: Visitors may want to consider purchasing a Florence City Pass, which includes access to various attractions and museums, potentially saving time and money.
Events and Festivals: Piazza Santa Maria Novella is sometimes used as a venue for cultural events, concerts, and festivals, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the square.
The square has a long and rich history that dates back to the 13th century. It was originally designed as an open space in front of the Santa Maria Novella church, serving as a meeting place for the religious and political activities of the city. Over the centuries, the square evolved and became a hub of Florentine life, with various buildings and palaces constructed around it, representing different architectural styles and periods.
Architectural Highlights: The main attraction of Piazza Santa Maria Novella is, of course, the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella itself. Its facade is a masterpiece of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, adorned with intricate marble work and decorative elements. Inside the church, visitors can admire stunning frescoes and artworks by artists such as Masaccio, Giotto, and Ghirlandaio.
On the opposite end of the square stands the Palazzo Strozzi, a magnificent Renaissance palace that once belonged to the influential Strozzi family. Today, the palace hosts art exhibitions and cultural events.
Tourist Information: Location: Piazza Santa Maria Novella is conveniently located near the main train station of Florence, Santa Maria Novella Train Station. It is within walking distance of many other major attractions in the city, making it a central starting point for exploring Florence.
Santa Maria Novella Train Station: As one of the main train stations in Florence, Santa Maria Novella Train Station provides easy access to the square for travelers arriving from other cities in Italy.
Restaurants and Cafes: The square is surrounded by cafes and restaurants, offering visitors a chance to relax and enjoy the bustling atmosphere of Florence.
Shopping: Via de' Tornabuoni, a prestigious shopping street known for luxury boutiques, is just a short walk from the square.
Florence City Pass: Visitors may want to consider purchasing a Florence City Pass, which includes access to various attractions and museums, potentially saving time and money.
Events and Festivals: Piazza Santa Maria Novella is sometimes used as a venue for cultural events, concerts, and festivals, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the square.
Piazza Santa Maria Novella
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City: Florence
Province: Metropolitan City of Florence Region: Tuscany Walking distance from Piazza del Duomo: 8 minutes Recommended accommodation: Hotel Spadai |
