Basilica di San Lorenzo and Cappelle Medicee, Florence, Italy

Nov 18, 2023 | Historical Building, Italy, Market, Religion

The construction of San Lorenzo began in the 4th century, making it one of the oldest churches in Florence.  One of the most notable features of San Lorenzo is the presence of the Medici Chapels.

Basilica di San Lorenzo: Piazza di San Lorenzo, 9, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy
Cappelle Medicee: Piazza di Madonna degli Aldobrandini, 6, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy
Mercato Centrale Firenze: Piazza del Mercato Centrale, Via dell’Ariento, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy

To the Basilica di San Lorenzo

The Basilica di San Lorenzo.  The construction of San Lorenzo began in the 4th century, making it one of the oldest churches in Florence. However, the basilica underwent significant renovations and changes over the centuries. Filippo Brunelleschi, the renowned Renaissance architect, was involved in the redesign of the basilica during the 15th century.

The basilica combines elements of Romanesque and Renaissance architecture. Brunelleschi’s contributions, particularly to the Old Sacristy, showcase early Renaissance design principles.

The rear area

The courtyard

In the basement is the treasury

The other side of the same building is Cappelle Medicee

Medici Chapels: One of the most notable features of San Lorenzo is the presence of the Medici Chapels. The New Sacristy, designed by Michelangelo, is part of the complex and houses the tombs of several members of the Medici family, including Lorenzo the Magnificent.

Walking upstairs to the more extensive chapter for the tombs

Spanning view

Walk through a little hallway to this smaller chamber is the tomb of Lorenzo de Medici (Lorenzo the Magnificent)

The tomb of Lorenzo de Medici

In front of the Basilica is this street market that sells leather goods.

A building next to the street market is the Mercato Centrale Firenze, which is a food court.

Walking back to my stay

The rear view