Overview
Santa Maria Novella is a Gothic-Renaissance church with one of Florence's most beautiful marble facades. Inside, its art collection rivals Santa Croce—Masaccio's 'Trinity', Ghirlandaio's choir frescoes, and Giotto's crucifix are all here.
Highlights
- Masaccio's Trinity (c. 1427): The first painting to use mathematical perspective—a revolution in Western art.
- Ghirlandaio's Tornabuoni Chapel: A cycle of frescoes depicting the lives of Mary and John the Baptist, with portraits of contemporary Florentines.
- Spanish Chapel: The chapter house with Andrea di Bonaiuto's 'Triumph of the Church' fresco.
History
Begun by Dominican friars in 1246, the church was completed by the mid-14th century. Leon Battista Alberti designed the green-and-white marble facade in 1470, blending Gothic proportions with Renaissance geometry.
Visitor Tips
- Entry: €7.50 includes church, cloisters, and Spanish Chapel.
- Near the station: Convenient first or last stop—Florence SMN station is named after it.
- Duration: 45–60 minutes.