This grandiose Franciscan church is one of the masterpieces of Italian Gothic style and is the work of Arnolfo di Cambio who started it in 1294.
The grand central hall culminates in the celebrated statue of David, framed in a monumental arch. The David was sculpted by Michelangelo between 1501 and 1504. Once situated outside Palazzo Vecchio where today you will find a 19th century copy, this huge marble work is a symbol of the liberty of the Florentine Republic.
In front of the Cathedral you will find the very beautiful Baptistery of San Giovanni. Called "il bel San Giovanni" by Dante, it has very ancient origins, going back perhaps to the 5th century AD, but certainly to the 11th and 12th centuries.