Santa Maria Novella, Florence

Basilica in Florence

Santa Maria Novella
CC BY-SA 3.0 / JoJan

The Basilica of Santa Maria Novella is one of the top sights in Florence, admired for its elegant white-and-green marble façade and its extraordinary collection of paintings, frescoes, and sculptures. Built by the Dominican Order in the 13th century on the site of the smaller Church of Santa Maria delle Vigne, it became one of Florence's most influential religious and artistic centres. Situated just steps from Florence's main train station, it is also a great place to visit on a walking tour of Florence, offering a serene yet impactful introduction to the city's spiritual and artistic heritage.

The façade, begun in 1350 and completed in 1470 by Leon Battista Alberti, brilliantly blends Romanesque and Renaissance elements. Inside, the basilica reveals a Gothic interior filled with masterpieces by some of the most important artists of the Middle Ages and Renaissance, making it one of the best places to visit in Florence for those passionate about art history.

History and Significance of Basilica of Santa Maria Novella

Construction of Santa Maria Novella began in the mid-1200s when the Dominican Order expanded the existing Church of Santa Maria delle Vigne. The basilica quickly became a prominent spiritual institution, serving both religious and educational functions. Its spacious nave and impressive architectural design reflect the Dominican commitment to preaching, teaching, and intellectual life.

The façade, with its harmonious geometric patterns of white and green marble, stands as one of the most iconic in Florence. Alberti's finishing touches in 1470 integrated Renaissance balance with earlier Gothic forms, setting a new standard for church architecture across Italy.

Throughout the centuries, Santa Maria Novella has remained central to Florentine religious life while also accumulating a vast collection of artistic treasures. From Giotto's early Crucifix to Masaccio's revolutionary Holy Trinity, the basilica is a living museum of evolving artistic techniques and theological expression.

Things to See and Do in Basilica of Santa Maria Novella

Inside the church, visitors will find Masaccio’s Holy Trinity, painted around 1424, a pioneering work of perspective and a cornerstone of Renaissance art. Nearby stands Giotto’s Crucifix from 1290, its emotional intensity marking a turning point in medieval painting.

The Strozzi Chapel features frescoes by Filippino Lippi depicting the life of Saint John the Evangelist, while the Tornabuoni Chapel is adorned with vibrant scenes narrating the lives of the Virgin Mary and Saint John—works associated with Domenico Ghirlandaio and possibly influenced by Michelangelo, who trained in Ghirlandaio’s workshop.

Other notable highlights include Botticelli’s early nativity scene and Brunelleschi’s beautifully carved wooden Crucifix in the Gondi Chapel, a sculptural masterpiece created in response to Donatello’s Crucifix in Santa Croce.

A ticket includes access to the entire monumental complex, offering the chance to explore the atmospheric Spanish Chapel with frescoes by Andrea Bonaiuto, the Green Cloister with Paolo Uccello’s striking fresco cycle, and the serene Cloister of the Dead.

How to Get to Basilica of Santa Maria Novella

Florence Airport, Peretola, provides efficient access to the city centre by tram or taxi. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Florence on Booking.com.

The basilica is only a few steps from Santa Maria Novella train station, making it extremely convenient for visitors arriving by rail. Use Omnio to easily compare schedules, book train tickets, and find the best prices all in one place for a hassle-free journey across Italy.

Driving within Florence’s historic centre is limited by ZTL restrictions, but visitors can park outside the restricted zone and walk or take a taxi to the basilica. If you are looking to rent a car in Italy I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting Basilica of Santa Maria Novella

  • Suggested tips: Spend time in the cloisters, as many visitors overlook these beautifully decorated spaces.
  • Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon for quieter exploration.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Around €7–€10.
  • Opening hours: Typically open daily with seasonal variations.
  • Official website: Santa Maria Novella official site.
  • How long to spend: 1–2 hours for the basilica and cloisters.
  • Accessibility: Generally accessible; some areas may have steps.
  • Facilities: Restrooms, bookshop, and nearby cafés.
  • Photography tip: Capture Alberti’s façade from the piazza for perfect symmetry.
  • Guided tours: Available through licensed guides or with an audio guide from the ticket office.
  • Nearby food options: Numerous restaurants and bakeries line the streets around the piazza.

Where to Stay close to Basilica of Santa Maria Novella

Travellers looking for convenience may enjoy Hotel L'Orologio, offering boutique style directly overlooking the square. For elegant comfort, consider Grand Hotel Minerva, which features a rooftop pool with city views. Another excellent option is Hotel Santa Maria Novella, combining classic décor with an unbeatable location.

Is Basilica of Santa Maria Novella Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. It is one of Florence’s most rewarding cultural experiences, combining architectural beauty with extraordinary Renaissance art. From Masaccio’s Holy Trinity to the Dominican cloisters, every corner of this complex reveals a new layer of Florence’s spiritual and artistic history.

FAQs for Visiting Basilica of Santa Maria Novella

Is entry to the basilica free?
No, a ticket is required, but it grants access to the entire complex.

Can you visit the cloisters?
Yes, the entrance ticket includes access to the cloisters and connected chapels.

Is photography allowed?
Photography without flash is generally permitted inside the basilica.

Nearby Attractions to Basilica of Santa Maria Novella

  • Piazza Santa Maria Novella – A lively square framed by elegant Renaissance buildings.
  • Medici Chapels – Michelangelo’s masterpieces and grand ducal tombs.
  • Duomo Complex – Florence Cathedral, Baptistery, and Giotto's Bell Tower.
  • San Lorenzo Market – A bustling area with food stalls and leather shops.
  • Santa Maria del Carmine – Home to the famous Brancacci Chapel frescoes.

The Santa Maria Novella appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Florence!

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Visiting Santa Maria Novella

Hours:

Monday to Thursday: 9:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Friday: 11:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Saturday: 9:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Sunday: 1:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Price:

Adults € 7.5

Address: Santa Maria Novella, Florence, Metropolitan City of Florence, Italy
Florence: 1 km
Official Website

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