BASILICA DI SANTO SPIRITO

Basilica di Santo Spirito, a great work of architecture from the fifteenth century, is amongst the best examples of Renaissance architecture in Florence. The Basilica houses 38 side chapels enriched with the works of famous artists such as Filippino Lippi, Andrea Sensovino and others. It also houses marvellous artworks such as Altarpiece by Filippino, young Michelangelo’s Crucifix and the Christ and the Adulteress among others. 

The Basilica di Santo Spirito, an Augustinian convent that was later converted into a Basilica, is one of the best examples of Renaissance architecture built by Filippo Brunelleschi in the 15th century. The basilica houses a total of 38 chapels, throughout the length of the attraction with magnificent and elaborate artwork on them. The Basilica has been governed by the Austin friends since its establishment.

Built with a Latin cross plan, the church has 3 naves surrounding the main altarpiece. The ceiling of the place was left open by Brunelleschi to symbolise the walls reaching the heavens. 

Visit the Basilica to get a chance to admire the magnificent artworks by popular artists such as Perugino, Andrea, Michelangelo and many others. The exterior of the architecture will amaze you with its stark appearance, with coats of arms over the windows belonging to the families who have their chapels in the Basilica. This is a great place to observe and admire the renaissance style of architecture, with the stone columns ornamented using the Corinthian capitals. A great example of simplicity, Basilica di Santo Spirito, houses some of the most beautiful and elaborate artworks such as the Altarpiece by Filippino, Annunciation by Pietro Donzello, Crucifix by Michelangelo and the Christ and the adulteress by Alessandro Allori. Marvel at the wonderful artworks inside the chapels throughout the Basilica and learn about the history behind them with a guide.

Highlights

• Admire the 38 side chapels in the church, decorated with the works of famous artists such as Filippino Lippi, Agnolo del Mazziere, Andrea Sansovino and Francesso Botticini.
• Learn about the rich history of the place while strolling through the Cloister of Parigi, the Sacristy, the Last Supper and the Refectory.
• Gaze at the crucifix by Michelangelo in the church, which is an important work of art as it mentions Christ in a form as described in the Gospels.
• Marvel at the beautiful Basilica designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, the great artist who also designed the Florence Cathedral.
• Look at the simplicity of the interiors of the church that hosts some of the most intriguing artworks such as a stained Glass Window by Perugino, a ruined Fresco and Cenacolo by Andrea and Pieta by Nanni di Baccio Bigio.
• Visit the Basilica di Santo Spirito to get a chance to explore one of the most beautiful religious and artistic monuments in Florence.

How To Reach

By Bus: You can take the bus lines 23, 23L, 30A, 370A, 6BL, C3 and CF that pass near the Basilica di Santo Spirito. The nearest bus stops to the Basilica are Pitti (2 min walk), Frescobaldi (4 min walk) and San Frediano Cestello (6 min walk).

Cab/Taxi: You can also reach the Basilica by booking a Cab or Taxi from your accommodation or from the airport too. 

Train: the R transit line passes near the Basilica and has a stop at Firenze Santa Maria Novella. You can book a Cab/Taxi from the stop to the attraction.

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Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit the Basilica di Santo Spirito is in the early hours as it opens in the morning and evening, as the crowd is less during these times and you can have enough time to go through all the points of interest at your own pace. Additionally, the months between May and September are ideal to visit the Basilica due to the pleasant weather and vibrant atmosphere in the city because of many art festivals. 

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Other Essential Information

Location: Piazza di Santo Spirito 30, 50125 Florence

Opening Hours

Monday to Saturday: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Sunday and Religious holidays: 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM, 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Entry fees: The entry fees would cost around 2 EUR

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Tips To Visit Basilica di Santo Spirito



1. The Basilica is stroller and wheelchair accessible, therefore you may bring your children and elderly to the attraction.
2. Creating any sort of crowd or gathering, intentionally, is strictly prohibited in the Basilica.
3. Make sure you dress appropriately in accordance with the sanity of the Basilica.
4. Choose a time for your visit with around 2 hours to spare so that you can explore the place without getting hurried.
5. Refrain from sitting on the steps of the church as it is strictly prohibited and not acceptable by the Basilica authorities.
6. Do not bring food or drinks in the churchyard of the Basilica, as it is not allowed.

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