There are so many sights to see and things to do while studying abroad in Florence. But, one of the must-see churches in Florence is the Basilica di Santa Croce. Also known as the Basilica of the Holy Cross, it is one of the most famous Franciscan churches to see and tour in Florence.

There are 16 family chapels that help compose the Santa Croce Basilica, making it the largest Franciscan church in the world! Even more fascinating is that there is a legend that says Santa Croce was founded by St Francis himself. Well-to-do families typically had chapels built and decorated in their honor (and often to appease the church or seek forgiveness for sins they were unwilling to stop committing) and dedicated to their favorite saint.

Did you know that in 1737, admirers of Galileo removed three fingers, a tooth and a vertebra from his body, which is now buried in a monumental tomb in the Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence? Santa Croce is the burial place of some of the most well known Italians, such as Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli, giving it the nickname “Temple of the Italian Glories.”

Spend an afternoon exploring this incredible church while you’re in Florence!

Opening Hours:
Monday – Sunday: 9:30am to 5:30pm
Sunday: 2:00pm to 5:30pm

Price: €8

Come find us!

Piazza di Santa Croce, 16, Florence, 50122
Tel: (+39) 055 246 6105
Website: www.santacroceopera.it/en
Facebook: www.facebook.com/santacroceopera