Basilica di Santo Spirito

It is not as popular as many other places but I think the most original church in Florence is Santo Spirito. It has an incredible atmosphere. There is an intertwined altar section/altar/mihrab inside. It is worth seeing just for that. It had a very different design. I was very impressed. The house was right in the center of the church. Moreover, it was free. There is also a statue of Jesus made by Michelangelo inside. This part is a separate place and you can enter here for 2€. I definitely recommend it. See it. Also the backyard is a wonderful place. The lemon trees, lotus and fish were wonderful. We were literally the only ones in a place like Florence. It was a wonderful experience to discover this church which is very plain from the outside but wonderful inside. It needs some maintenance.

Built in the early 15th century on the site of an Augustinian monastery destroyed by fire, the basilica was designed by Renaissance master Filippo Brunelleschi. He began the design in 1434, though construction did not begin in earnest until after his death in 1446, with his pupils completing the church in 1487. The exterior remains unfinished, clad in simple gray stone, reflecting the fact that Brunelleschi’s original vision was never fully realized. In contrast, the interior is rich with artworks, including the octagonal sacristy designed by Giuliano da Sangallo in 1489—a true gem of Renaissance architecture. Note: Photography is not allowed inside.

Stayed in a nearby apartment and still miss these church bells now that I am home. The history and architecture is definitely worth a visit but attending Mass here was a game changer. Plus, there is a bonus Michelangelo treasure and beautiful cloister garden. Don't let the simple, austere fascade fool you. This place is special.

Nice, quiet church with beautiful architecture. Not too crowded, which made it a peaceful stop during my visit to Florence. Worth a quick look if you're nearby

This is a large Augustinian church with a history dating back nearly a thousand years. However, the building that you see today was designed by Filippo Brunelleschi (1428-1446). The main body of the church is free to visit but a 2 Euro entry fee required to access the cloister and sacristy where the crucifix by Michelangelo is to be seen. The basilica exterior is subtle and unassuming. The interior nave is very large, nearly 97 metres in length. You will find 38 side chapels with very nice artworks including masterpieces by Botticini and F. Lippi. The Baroque baldachin is rather ornate and impressive and it is interesting to see the the crucifix carving by a young Michelangelo in the sacristy.

The Basilica of the Holy Spirit was designed by Filippo Brunelleschi in the Renaissance style, who worked on it until his death in 1446. The interior is relatively minimal, except for the Baroque baldachin with polychrome marble added in 1601. The octagonal sacristy was added by Giuliano da Sangallo in 1489 and holds Michelangelo's Crucifix. Michelangelo, when he was 17 years old, was allowed to make anatomical studies on the corpses coming from the convent's hospital; in exchange, he sculpted a wooden crucifix which reflected what he learned about anatomy. Need to pay the entrance fee to see Michelangelo's Crucifix, because the sacristy it's in is also quite nice.

During my visit to Italy in 2006, I had the privilege of discovering the serene beauty and spiritual solace offered by the Basilica di Santo Spirito in Florence. This exquisite church, nestled in the Oltrarno district, captivated my senses with its architectural elegance, serene ambiance, and profound sense of tranquility. From its harmonious design to its rich historical significance, the Basilica di Santo Spirito left an indelible impression on my journey through Florence. Stepping into the basilica, I was immediately enveloped in a sense of peace and serenity. The church's simple yet elegant design, attributed to renowned Renaissance architect Filippo Brunelleschi, exuded a tranquil aura that invited quiet contemplation and reflection. The spacious interior, adorned with soft natural light and minimal ornamentation, created a serene atmosphere conducive to spiritual introspection. The basilica's architectural beauty was a testament to the ingenuity of the Renaissance era. The symmetrical layout, vaulted ceilings, and harmonious proportions showcased Brunelleschi's mastery of design. The subtle play of light and shadow created an ethereal ambiance that enhanced the spiritual experience within the sacred space. The Basilica di Santo Spirito also boasted an impressive collection of artworks. The altarpiece, created by the renowned Florentine artist Filippino Lippi, served as a focal point of reverence and admiration. The delicate details and vibrant colors of the artwork elevated the spiritual atmosphere, inspiring a profound connection with the divine. What truly set the basilica apart was its intimate and welcoming atmosphere. Unlike some of the larger and more crowded churches in Florence, Santo Spirito offered a tranquil refuge away from the bustling city streets. The absence of large crowds allowed for a more personal and contemplative experience, enabling visitors to connect with their inner selves and find solace in the presence of the divine. The local community's active participation in the life of the basilica further enriched the visit. Observing the faithful in prayer, witnessing the celebration of Mass, and engaging with the warm and welcoming parishioners added a sense of authenticity and spirituality to the experience. It was a testament to the basilica's role as a cherished place of worship and community gathering. While the Basilica di Santo Spirito may not receive as much attention as some of Florence's more famous landmarks, its understated beauty and tranquil ambiance make it a hidden gem worth discovering. The opportunity to immerse oneself in its serene atmosphere, to admire its architectural splendor, and to experience a moment of spiritual reflection within its walls is a true gift. My visit to the Basilica di Santo Spirito was a soul-nourishing experience. It provided a respite from the bustling streets of Florence and offered a haven of tranquility and contemplation. The spiritual energy and serene beauty of the basilica left an indelible mark on my heart, reminding me of the power of faith, art, and architectural grandeur to uplift the human spirit. For those seeking a moment of quiet reflection, an appreciation for architectural excellence, or a glimpse into the spiritual life of Florence, a visit to the Basilica di Santo Spirito is an absolute must. It is an opportunity to step into a sacred sanctuary, to find solace amidst the beauty of the divine, and to embrace a profound sense of peace. The Basilica di Santo Spirito is a true treasure—a destination that deserves the highest praise.

Lovely cool church but horrible unwelcoming staff. Some ‘welcome’ in the year of The Jubilee and with a new Pope in Rome. No photo sign, extremely enforced with no reason given. Probably so you are forced to get their dusty postcards from 20 years ago. Policy of no bare knees and no bare shoulders apparently only applies to women, tank top/shorts men are fine. Not many people in, in spite of the early Michelangelo crucifix, which leads me to believe my experience is not singular. Not recommended as a visit unless you need to sit down and watch other visitors being shouted at.