The foundation of this spectacular structure dates as far back as the 11th century. The building exudes an Italian-Romanesque style. The structure itself is magnificent, but the three sets of bronze doors (first created by Andrea Pisano and later completed by Lorenzo Ghiberti) are breathtaking. His descriptive artwork is divided into panels and depicts captivating scenes from the Old and New Testaments. The work is so beautifully done that Michelangelo praised them.

The magnificent Duomo of Florence stands above all other buildings in the city. Construction began in the 12th century and was not completed until the dome was built in the 15th century. Thus, the cathedral has both Roman and Gothic architectural styles. One of the main attractions in the interior is the polychrome floors, which were worked on by multiple artists before they were completed. The frescos, choir stalls, floor mosaics, and stained glass are some of the finest you will see. The Rose Window by Duccio di Buoninsegna, which was created in 1288, is one of Italy's first examples of stained glass craftsmanship. While you are there, do not miss the cathedral's Baptistery.

The Medici Chapels were designed with the specific purpose of glorifying the Medici family. The chapels are connected to the family's parish church, San Lorenzo. The first chapel is adorned with marble and precious gems. The New Sacristy was designed by Michelangelo. It contains the tombs of powerful Medicis and Michelangelo's sculptures "Night and Day" and "Dawn and Dusk."

Ognissanti, meaning "All Saints," was founded by an order of monks who were responsible for bringing the wool trade to Florence. It was originally founded in the 13th century. Shortly thereafter, Giotto painted the "Maestà" for the high alter. Ognissanti was the parish church of the Vespucci family, the most famous member of which is Amerigo, after whom the Americas were named.

The SS Apostoli was begun in 1075 and much of its original façade still remains. The church mimics the design of the Roman basilica, and many later churches followed the same rectangular, columned design of the SS Apostoli. Inside, you find Giorgio Vasari's "Immaculate Conception" and Archbishop Antonio Altoviti's tomb. The SS Apostoli is located in the Piazza del Limbo, so named because it sits on the site of a previous graveyard for non-baptized babies.