Basilica di Santa Croce di Firenze

The Basilica of Santa Croce di Firenze, situated in historic Florence, is one of the most important Franciscan sanctuaries in Italy. The church is the burial place of historical figures such as Italy's most famous poet, Dante Alighieri, scientist Galileo Galilei and Renaissance sculptor Michelangelo. Its exterior features an impressive facade and the inner walls are decorated with frescoes from different periods and a large crucifix sculpted by the famous Florentine Bernardo Rossellino. Its interior holds the shrine of St. Francis, which shows how important his cult was in Florence and Italy during the Renaissance. The grandiose design of the Basilica is typical of 16th century Florentine architecture and is filled with elaborate chapels and tombs. The sacristy contains works by Niccolò di Pietro Gerini and Donatello, among others. Santa Croce di Firenze is certainly a must-see place for any traveller touring Florence, Italy.