Florence is one of the most fascinating cities in the world, especially for those who appreciate the art of the Renaissance. The Medici family were wealthy merchants and bankers who achieved political and ecclesiastical power. As patrons of the arts, their contributions to the history of Western art are incalculable. Perhaps the most dramatic evidence of their legacy is the Duomo, Florence's cathedral.
Definitely read Brunelleschi's Dome before visiting Florence. This very readable book by Ross King tells the story of the competition that led to the ultimate design of the Duomo. Once you have read the book, you will see this cathedral with a sense of wonder at the phenomenal engineering feat that it represents. Built in the 12th-14th centuries without modern construction equipment, Brunelleschi designed a dome nearly 142 feet in diameter, larger than the domes of the Capitol in Washington, the Pantheon in Rome, and St. Peters in Vatican City. Even more remarkable — the dome was constructed without scaffolding (because the cost of felling trees enough to support the dome and to transport them to Florence would have made the project even more unaffordable). Brunelleschi invented a technique whereby the partially constructed dome was self-supporting.
When you visit the Duomo, look up at the dome's elaborate fresco of the Last Judgment. Take the opportunity to climb the narrow steps that lead you up inside the twin shells of the dome. You will realize the physical exertion it involved for workers to climb up those narrow steps every day, carrying the stones used in the construction. It will give you the ultimate appreciation of this architectural miracle. When, finally, when you step out onto the balcony at the top of the church, you will be rewarded with the view above.
Florence Duomo (search here on Google)
copyright (c) 2009 by David J. Ourisman. All rights reserved. If you have comments on this column, or questions about booking travel, email me or visit my website.
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