Florence - Basilica of Santa Croce

Florentina was established in Roman times as a settlement for veteran soldiers. The name had changed already, when young Charlemagne conquered the town in 774. It became part of the Duchy of Tuscany, with Lucca as capital. Around 1000 Margrave Hugo chose Florence as residency instead of Lucca. After the death of Matilda of Tuscany (1115), the Florentines formed a republic was ruled by a council. The town prospered, despite a constant fight between the different factions and noble families.

In the 15th century, Florence was among the largest and wealthiest cities in Europe. This was, when the Medici family entered the political scene. As a dynasty of art loving, power hungry bankers, they made Florence the birthplace of the Renaissance.

The Basilica di Santa Croce is the principal Franciscan church in Florence and the largest Franciscan church worldwide. The nave is 115 m long.

Legends tell, that it was founded by St Francis himself, but proven is that the construction was begun outside the city walls in 1294. The floorplan is a Tau cross, what is a symbol of St Francis. The design was done by Arnolfo di Cambio, a very busy architect, as he worked as well at the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore and the Palazzo Vecchio. The church was consecrated in 1442 by Pope Eugene IV.

On Nov. 4. 1966 the Arno River flooded Florence, including Santa Croce. The water reached a hight of 5 meters here, bringing mud, pollution and heating oil. The damage to buildings and works of art was really severe. It took decades to repair, what could be repaired.

In 2013 the frescoes within the apse were hidden under scaffolding as they needed conservation and restoration. But in the late afternoon, when the specialists are gone, a a small group of tourists is allowed to climb up the scaffolding.

Of course with a knowledgeable guide - and unfortunately without cameras. It is incredible to see the paintings from that small distance!