Opera del Duomo Museum

Art museum · San Niccolo

Opera del Duomo Museum

Art museum · San Niccolo

5

Piazza del Duomo, 9, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

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Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by Antonio Quattrone/Courtesy Museo dell'Opera del Duomo
Opera del Duomo Museum by Photo courtesy of Museo dell'Opera del Duomo
Opera del Duomo Museum by Antonio Quattrone/Courtesy Museo dell'Opera del Duomo
Opera del Duomo Museum by Antonio Quattrone/Courtesy Museo dell'Opera del Duomo
Opera del Duomo Museum by Antonio Quattrone/Courtesy Museo dell'Opera del Duomo
Opera del Duomo Museum by Antonio Quattrone/Courtesy Museo dell'Opera del Duomo
Opera del Duomo Museum by Antonio Quattrone/Courtesy Museo dell'Opera del Duomo
Opera del Duomo Museum by Photo courtesy of Museo dell'Opera del Duomo
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null
Opera del Duomo Museum by null

Highlights

The Museo dell'Opera del Duomo is a stunningly expansive museum showcasing original masterpieces by Michelangelo and Donatello, housed in a serene, modern space that perfectly complements Florence's iconic cathedral.  

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Piazza del Duomo, 9, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy Get directions

duomo.firenze.it
@museofirenze

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Piazza del Duomo, 9, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy Get directions

+39 055 230 2885
duomo.firenze.it
@museofirenze
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@operaduomofi

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Jul 24, 2025

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@travelleisure

Rick Steves Just Told Us Everything You Need to Know About Traveling to Europe This Summer

"Travelers can almost always get into the Opera del Duomo Museum instead of waiting at the better-known Uffizi Gallery." - Travel + Leisure Editors

https://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-tips/rick-steves-europe-summer-travel-tips
View Postcard for Opera del Duomo Museum
@afar

"The Cathedral Works Museum Florence’s wonderful Museo dell'Opera del Duomo (Cathedral Works Museum) is open to the public with double its original floor space and a new contemporary look. The unique collection of works by masters such as Donatello, Michelangelo, Luca della Robbia, and Lorenzo Ghiberti includes statuary from the Duomo, bell tower, and Baptistery as well as models and other exhibits relating to the building of one of the world's largest cathedrals. Showstoppers include the bronze panels from the Baptistery's doors, gleaming from their recent cleanup; Donatello’s emotive Mary Magdalene ; the two exquisite cantorie (choir lofts) by Donatello and della Robbia; and a vast scale replica of the Duomo's original facade, ripped down in 1587."

Art and Architecture in Tuscany
View Postcard for Museum of Opera of Saint Maria of Fiore
@afar

"The Cathedral Works Museum Florence’s wonderful Museo dell'Opera del Duomo (Cathedral Works Museum) is open to the public with double its original floor space and a new contemporary look. The unique collection of works by masters such as Donatello, Michelangelo, Luca della Robbia, and Lorenzo Ghiberti includes statuary from the Duomo, bell tower, and Baptistery as well as models and other exhibits relating to the building of one of the world's largest cathedrals. Showstoppers include the bronze panels from the Baptistery's doors, gleaming from their recent cleanup; Donatello’s emotive Mary Magdalene ; the two exquisite cantorie (choir lofts) by Donatello and della Robbia; and a vast scale replica of the Duomo's original facade, ripped down in 1587."

The Best Things to Do in Florence
View Postcard for Museum of Opera of Saint Maria of Fiore
@cntraveler

16 Best Things to Do in Florence

"Museo dell'Opera del Duomo is the gorgeous and extensive museum dedicated to the Dome and Basilica, as well as restoration projects. Home to the largest collection of sculptures from Medieval and Renaissance Florence in the world, this museum has an active restoration lab and school on site. Other highlights include Ghiberti's doors, Michelangelo's The Deposition, a model of the original, never-completed façade of Santa Maria del Fiore, and a room dedicated to Brunelleschi's architectural masterpiece: the Dome of Florence cathedral. Be sure to hit the gift shop on the way out; it sells great books." - Erica Firpo

https://www.cntraveler.com/galleries/2016-07-01/best-things-to-do-in-florence-italy
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@cntraveler

Museo dell'Opera del Duomo - Museum Review | Condé Nast Traveler

"What’s this place all about? Museo dell'Opera del Duomo is a gorgeous and large new museum dedicated to the Dome and Basilica, as well as restoration projects. Despite its size, it's quite unassuming and often overlooked as it sits in the shadow of Brunelleschi's dome. What are we going to see here? Home to the largest collection of sculptures from Medieval and Renaissance Florence in the world, this museum has an active restoration lab and school on site. Other highlights include Ghiberti's doors, Michelangelo's The Deposition, a model of the original, never-completed façade of Santa Maria del Fiore, and a room dedicated to Brunelleschi's architectural masterpiece: the Dome of Florence cathedral. Can you describe the experience of the place a bit more? Space, pace, and volume are well planned—it never feels crowded. The lighting is beautiful: luminous in the grand hall and spotlit in the smaller rooms. Who else are we likely to see here? Visitors are largely art aficionados. Everyone is peacefully and calmly walking through the collection; Michelangelo's "Deposition" was a bit crowded, but not uncomfortably so. On the practical tip, how were the facilities? It's very easy to get around, and be sure to visit the panoramic terrace for a gorgeous, eye-to-eye view of Brunelleschi's dome. Any guided tours worth trying? You can meander on your own or download the museum's free app. Anything to look for at the gift shop? The gift shop sells great books." - Erica Firpo

https://www.cntraveler.com/activities/florence/florence/museo-dellopera-del-duomo
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Martin Baychev

Google
This was one of the biggest museums I've ever visited, I thought the building was way smaller. It collects a rich history behind the Duomo and how everything was built, nice video presentations behind the work that was done and also astonishing sculptures from Michelangelo, Bandinelli and many more. Definitely worth a visit, plus the terrace on top has a great view!

Lauren Louton

Google
An amazing experience to walk in and see the wall exactly as it would have been outside. I really like how they put the replicas outside to showcase but then the originals inside to better preserve them. You can sit and examine the wall and doors for as long as you want, though there are plenty of cool things to see. I loved getting to see Mary Magdalene as a peasant; It was one of those unique pieces where I’d never seen anything like it because she’s not usually depicted like that. I think I would have stayed longer here had I had the chance. I also highly recommend checking out the gift shop for some wonderful souvenirs. There was air conditioning and they had bathrooms, as well as many places to sit and view the pieces.

TJ Kim

Google
Florence is home to many famous museums and galleries, but if you had to choose just one for any reason, I would strongly recommend this one. Here, you can see outstanding masterpieces such as Ghiberti’s bronze doors, Donatello’s Mary Magdalene, and Michelangelo’s Bandini Pietà. It also houses key works from the Duomo and the Baptistery of San Giovanni. After viewing the exhibitions, don’t miss the Brunelleschi Terrace on the 4th floor—it offers a stunning view of the cathedral’s dome.

Yecheng Shen

Google
Stepping into the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo was an absolute highlight of my trip to Florence. My ticket was conveniently included as part of a pass, which made entry seamless. This museum is an indispensable companion to visiting the Duomo itself, as it houses an incredible collection of original artifacts and artworks originally created for the Florence Cathedral complex. The sheer volume and historical significance of the pieces on display are breathtaking. Seeing Ghiberti's original "Gates of Paradise" up close was a truly awe-inspiring experience – the detail and craftsmanship are even more remarkable in person. Beyond the famous gates, the museum is filled with countless sculptures, tools, and architectural models that offer profound insights into the construction and evolution of the Duomo. It's an incredible opportunity to appreciate the genius of artists like Donatello and Michelangelo in their original context.

Manuel Urquidi

Google
Probably one of the best museums I have visited. It houses many original pieces of the Cathedral and Baptistery that were moved here during restoration. You will be able to sit in front of the three doors of the Baptistery and look at them in detail (while the replica has a railing in front that makes it hard to see). You can also touch replicas to see how they feel and understand the story of the Cathedral complex. Another pro is the size – in less than two hours you are done after enjoying a magnificent museum. A must-see.

Seokjin Ham

Google
The museum preserves and displays original artworks from Florence’s most iconic religious sites—including the Cathedral (Duomo), the Baptistery of San Giovanni, and Giotto’s Campanile. It houses one of the world’s most important collections of medieval and Renaissance sculpture. Originally opened in 1891, the museum underwent a major renovation in 2015, transforming it into the impressive and modern space visitors experience today. Many of the masterpieces once housed outdoors or in the cathedral—including sculptures by Michelangelo, Donatello, and Ghiberti’s original Gates of Paradise—are now protected and beautifully exhibited here. ※ Included in the Brunelleschi, Giotto, and Ghiberti Passes.

Sadek Miah

Google
I've always found Italian history rather fascinating. There is a certain romance attached to the varying periods of the nation's history and this museum seeks to highlight that past. The sculptures, architectures, grand balconies, paintings, ornaments, etc., are a storied collection of ideas that came alive and shaped Italy as we know it today. You'll easily spend a couple of hours here and when all is said and done, head to the rooftop to get an epic view of the nearby Cathedral Duomo from an angle not often seen. Another spectacular museum in a city that houses quite a fantastic collection of museums.

Gabriel Sallorenzo

Google
This museum really enhances the experience of visiting Florence. It offers great insight into the history of the cathedral and the city itself. The space is modern, well-organized, and easy to navigate. Surprisingly, the museum shop has reasonably priced items as well. Definitely worth a visit.
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Jason M.

Yelp
I visited Il Museo dell'Opera del Duomo as part of a guided tour of the piazza and eventual climb of the dome itself. Our first stop of the tour was here, and we spent a good amount of time going through the exhibits and learning about their history. It's best to think of the museum as an extension of the Cathedral itself, partly because there are several exhibits related to its infrastructure - and more importantly because the museum contains many of the original sculptures that adorned the exterior of the building. They have since been moved here for preservation purposes, and have been replaced by replicas on the Cathedral itself. Another standout exhibit is a life-size replica of the first three stories of the cathedral, with all the sculptures in their original placements. We spent a good amount of time discussing the original doors to the Baptistery designed by Lorenzo Ghiberti. These are massive and set in nitrogen tanks in order to present tarnishing - we were given a lot of insight into them, but even if you're not part of a tour you can really just stare at them for a good while and take in all that they are displaying. We ended our time at the museum on the rooftop terrace which provided great views of the dome. Overall, this was a fine museum; to be honest there isn't *too* much to see and I would think of it more as an extension of the Cathedral and Baptistery, but regardless there's some really good stuff here and it's perfect if you're looking to gain more insight into the Piazza del Duomo.
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Maruko X.

Yelp
The museum itself isn't really that impressive, only if you'd like to learn a lot more about the history of the duomo. If you get time go to the top terrace, quiet and open view for the closest side of the dome. Other than that, I think you can skip this place if you're on a tight schedule.
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Mike M.

Yelp
My visit to the Duomo Museum was using the Ghiberti pass which provides entrance to this museum and The Baptistry on the day selected along with a timed entry to the church through a side door bypassing the long line outside for those waiting for the free entry. Go online to purchase well before your trip here to save a lot of time. After passing through security (because there is some expensive stuff in here) you pass through several rooms that include works by Michelangelo, Brunelleschi, Donatello and Ghiberti among others. Included are the original bronze doors from The Baptistry called the Gates of Paradise, sculptures of Mary Magdalene and a Pieta, along with models used to build the dome over the Duomo which was an engineering marvel back then that was later used in building structures from St. Peter's Basilica to the US Capitol. They also have an outside terrace that gives you a close up view of the Duomo. There are also a couple of rooms devoted to early musical instruments like pianos and strings like violins and basses along with various other sculptures and paintings. This museums represents one of the best examples of depicting the art of The Renaissance period. I would budget about 90 minutes to visit depending on your tastes.
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Maggi R.

Yelp
On all of our visits to Florence, I am not sure why we missed this museum. We were completely blown away by its beauty and attention to the presentation and detail to each and every article on display. The Museo dell'Opera del Duomo opened in 1891. It covers 64,500+ square feet into 28 rooms and divided over three floors. It features most of the original sculptures and objects of art created for the Cathedral, the Baptistery, and Giotto's Campanile. These were placed in the Cathedral Museum to conserve them, and the others were replaced by copies. It was wonderful to see the original Ghiberti's Baptistry doors up close. It houses original masterpieces from renowned artists such as Michelangelo, Ghiberti, and Donatello, making it a treasure trove of art and history. We were thrilled to see Michelangelo's' Pieta as well as Donatello's Penitent Magdalene. Both were incredibly beautiful and striking. The museum has the largest collection of Florentine monument sculptures in the world: medieval and of the Renaissance statues and reliefs in marble, bronze, and silver of the Middle Age and of the Renaissance by the greatest artists of all ages. The museum also contains some of the original construction tools and various mockups of the Cathedral's façade and the dome. It also has a worthwhile collection of paintings and sculptures, including such notable works as Michelangelo's Pieta and Donatello's La Maddalena (circa 1455), plus so many more. This is a museum not to be missed.
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Mel T.

Yelp
I will be honest. We only visited Museo del Opera because we passed by it and it was included in the Giotto Pass that we had already paid for. We stopped in at 10:30, and it wasn't that crowded. I have a feeling this is not as popular as other attractions at the Duomo, and plus you've also got the Galleria dell Accademia and Uffizi nearby. We did a loop around the first floor of the museum and stayed probably for 10 minutes. Maybe we would have stayed longer if we had nothing to do and weren't on a time crunch, but we had other places to be. I'll admit that I am not big on art/history so if you are, then you might enjoy this museum. Otherwise, it's skippable.
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Chris L.

Yelp
A stunning museum. 4 floors of perfectly displayed artifacts. Excellent signage and lighting. Interactive items throughout. Short films, touchable art, human elements all around. Staff is friendly and eager to share knowledge. Purchase the ticket at the ticket office on the piazza. It the big pass for 20€ and gain access to everything on the piazza. It's a real deal!
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Shanelle S.

Yelp
Museum with various exhibits about the Basilica that can be visited via the Bruneschellini Pass. It's conveniently across the Basilica and there were quite a few field trips and tour groups present. There's multiple levels and we went from bottom to top. Restrooms are available as well as a water fountain. You go through a security check first and then will scan your ticket. You can purchase the Brunnelschini Pass and then use that to enter the museum at any time. Elevators and stairs are available. There are also a couple of benches at the top level to sit if you need a break. We spent about an hour and a half to two hours here.
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Marcia R.

Yelp
Worth it for the wooden Mary Magdalene by Donatello. Practically oozing with poignancy.
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Andrea U.

Yelp
We took the steps underneath the Doumo where they are excavating and have unearthed a tremendous amount of tiles, frescoes, tombs, Religious artifacts... The archaeological site is very impressive and vast. There were some seats, lighting wasn't the best so reading info was difficult. Inside the museum at the Doumo is an incredible collection of medieval and Florentine Renaissance sculptures and countless unique masterpieces of art by Florence's greatest renaissance artists.
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Dia D.

Yelp
We ate breakfast at the cafe attached to the museum and sat outside in the shadow of the Duomo. For 10 Euro the Sweet Breakfast included a dish of yogurt with fruit and granola, a pastry, and a cappuccino. After breakfast, we went inside the museum. This is a great museum that is mostly empty. The original Baptistery doors are here and they are so much prettier than the copies outside because they are kept at a perfect temperature and humidity. There are also displays with the losing designs for the Duomo facade, a model of the Duomo's dome, information on the construction of the dome, Michelangelo's last pietà, and Donatello's Mary Magdalene. Definitely an underrated museum that many people would enjoy more than the Uffizi.
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Kimberly S.

Yelp
What a wonderful museum. Found in a Rick Steves guide. A full size replica of the original cathedral. Just can't beat that! Breathtaking original Baptistery doors. Lots of hidden gems in hallways you can miss. I highly recommend and don't forget the student discount!
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Sanjay G.

Yelp
25 rooms, three floors, and nearly 65,000 square feet, the massive Museo dell' Opera del Duomo houses more than 750 works of art covering nearly 700+ years of history. it serves to preserve the artistic masterpieces that were once on display in the Duomo. Highlights from the collection include Ghiberti's original Gates of Paradise from the Baptistery and Michelangelo's Pietà, which many believe he created to adorn his tomb. the Opera di Santa Maria del Fiore, as it is known today, is still actively engaged in preserving and enhancing the monuments comprising the Great Museum of the Duomo: the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore with Brunelleschi's Dome and the crypt of Santa Reparata, the Baptistery of San Giovanni, Giotto's bell tower and the Historical Museum. Hall of Paradise, Pietà by Michelangelo, Penitent Magdalene by Donatello- are some masterpieces kept here. Entrance to the museum is covered by the combo ticket you're required to buy if you want to climb the steps of the Duomo or visit any of the other sites within the square. Just keep plenty of time to admire all of the works housed here. also, this museum is not as crowded as the Uffizi.
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David F.

Yelp
If the Duomo is the heart of Florence, and many find worthy of hours-long waits, it is surprising the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo - a true accompaniement to the Duomo - is relatively uncrowded. With many of the original Duomo artifacts and a recreation of its past, Duomo fans should not miss it. Located in the same square as the Duomo it's understated three-story yellow façade is easy to overlook given it's more dramatic-appearing neighbors. The Duomo combo ticket will gain admission, as well as the Firenze Card. Don't miss Room 6, the Hall of Paradise (Sala del Paradiso). It is like going back into time and seeing what the Baptistery and Duomo façades were like in 1500. On one side are the original "Gates of Paradise" of the Baptistery, created by Lorenzo Ghiberti, with sparkling gold covering their bronze interior. On the opposite wall from the Baptistery doors is a full-scale, floor-to-ceiling recreation of the Duomo's façade. Pictures don't do it justice. The room invites a slow appreciation, and benches allow even those of tired feet to linger. Other key things to see: Donatello's Mary Magdalene, Michelangelo's Pieta, and Brunelleschi's model of the Duomo dome.
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Greg T.

Yelp
Nice little museum which serves as a kind of annex for the Duomo and Baptistry. Our entry for the dome also got us entry here and it was certainly a worthwhile visit. They have the original Baptistry doors on display which are mammoth and very ornate. There is a excellent breakdown and presentation on how the entire complex was constructed which you shouldn't miss. The highlight however is Michelangelo's Piatas which is a latter version with the artist represented as Nicodamus. Well worth the visit for the outstanding historical artifacts and education provided.
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Benny H.

Yelp
This is a small museum located right by the Duomo. It's about three floors, and all the art has a religious theme. I'm really into art, so I was very impressed by many of the pieces that were on exhibition. I got an all exclusive pass, but still wasn't allowed into the actual Duomo, but luckily I was able to get into this spot. It's a bit of a mess getting tickets for this place and all in all, a lot of Italy is a bit strange, but this is a nice little place. It's not the biggest museum, but it does have a lot going for it.
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Moses H.

Yelp
Stunning Museum slash church smack DAB in the middle of florence. This is one of the few buildings that the exterior is even more beautiful than the interior. Still after walking in and taking in the soaring ceilings and impressive arches. Go to the front of the building there is an altar where there appears to be the area for a priest to do mass. Look up at the amazing fresco in the large Dome. Your neck will get tired before you look over each part of this painting. So lovely!
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Norman W.

Yelp
This museo is in my top attractions of the world. I must admit it took me by surprise as the outside is 'old' but once across the threshold a new area opens up. Very modern and extremely well laid out museum comes to light. Plenty of space to wander around without being jostled. Just take your time around the three floors and galleries. Don't miss those massive, original, doors to the Duomo. They are breathtaking. If you are in Florence then this is a must. ENJOY.
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Amy N.

Yelp
Great museum to learn more about the construction and history of Duomo. Museums such as these are much more enjoyable when you have some information to read along/listen to. I recommend Rick Steve's "Florence." You can appreciate art so much more with extra knowledge! You have to make a reservation for entering the museum. It is included in your 15 euro combo ticket. We chose the latest time 18:30. Well, it turns out that the museum closes at 19:00. There were other party's besides us looking around, and unfortunately we all got kicked out at 19:30. I wish they didn't have 18:30 as an option, as 30 minutes is not enough time to look around everything! We didn't even get a chance to look around the gift shop. I wish they could let us know when we were going to kicked out so we could have planned our time to look around everything. Doesn't change the fact that this is a great museum!
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Isabella B.

Yelp
The Opera del Duomo (lit. "works commission") is a guild founded in 1296 by the Florentine Republic to oversee the construction of the cathedral and its bell tower. When the cathedral was finally consecrated in 1436 its primary focus switched to the conservation and embellishment of this complex of monuments. In 1777 the adjacent baptistery was included in its purview and in 1891 this museum was founded to house the works of art previously in the cathedral or baptistery but removed over the course of several hundred years. The museum is located what was once the the guild's headquarters and was also the same location that Michelangelo sculpted his famous "David". Ever since the museum's opening it has gradually expanded - nearly 6000 square meters of exhibition space spread over 3 floors and 25 rooms house over 750 works of art. A remodel in 2015 allowed some components of the museum - namely the original facade of the Duomo and Ghiberti's two famous doors on the opposite side to be showcased in situ. Admission to the museum is included in your €18 ticket, which also includes the other sites of the Duomo complex save the cathedral, which itself is free. Your ticket is valid for all sights within a 72-hour period, which can be spread out along with other Florentine sights (ie. Accademia, Uffizi). Allow for at least a good hour to get through the rooms quickly and at least double if you are an art, church or history aficionado as the museum tells the story of the Santa Maria del Fiore over the years in a way much better than the actual cathedral. For me not only did this visit allow me to begin to truly appreciate Florence's most significant site, the museum helped pass the time while it rained in the city. To help process the mountain of information presented in the museum if you're not already an aficionado use either a good guidebook or download the Museo Duomo app. The app has a "live mode" that tracks your progress via Bluetooth and diagrams the room and its artworks. I wish I had known about this during my visit. POINTS OF SIGNIFICANCE 1. Salone del Paradiso (room 6): Christians called the area between the baptistery and the church "paradise" as it evokes the joy of a newly-baptized person allowed to participate in the eucharist for the first time (because in ancient Christian tradition, non-baptized people were not allowed to enter churches). The main feature is a 1:1 reconstruction of the original facade of the cathedral to the east as it is depicted based on a 16th century drawing (the current facade is Neo-Gothic and dates in the 1800's) and the original doors that Lorenzo Ghiberti made for the baptistery to the west (the ones in the actual baptistery are copies). 2. Sala della Maddalena (room 8): Housing Donatello's Penitent Magdalene. Made from wood, it is known for being one of the most realistic depictions of Mary Magdalene as she repented for her sins for 30 years in the desert after following Jesus. It is realistic in that other depictions of Mary Magdalene have her depicted in perfect health despite her time in the desert. 3. Tribuna di Michelangelo (room 10): Housing Michelangelo's *other* famous pieta which was meant to adorn his tomb. The hooded figure of Nicodemus was meant to be a self-portrait. It was abandoned and mutilated by the sculptor upon finding defects in the marble. I prefer this to the one in St. Peter's Basilica. 4. Galleria del Campanile (room 14): This room shows sculptures and reliefs from the bell tower and displayed in its original order. 5. Galleria della Cupola (room 15): This room tells the story of the cathedral's famous dome and its architect Filippo Brunelleschi as told through models. A brief film helps summarize this story about how the dome was built despite nearly impossible odds due to the technology that was needed not having existed during its construction. 6. Sala delle Cantorie (room 23): This room contains two cantoria (choir lofts) that once stood in the Duomo sanctuary. One was made by Luca della Robbia (right) and the other was made by Donatello (left). The cantorias depict Psalm 150 but are depicted remarkably different from each other with della Robbia's being more whimsical while Donatello's more hedonistic. 7. Galleria dei modelli (room 17): This room contains the wooden models created as a proposal for a new Renaissance-style facade to replace the old medieval one demolished in 1587. 8. Belvedere della Cupola (room 18): An outdoor terrace that allows an excellent view of the dome. This would be the best view for people who have limited mobility (people unable to climb towers) or did not book a room that specifically advertises a dome view. I was lucky that my campanile climb and my hotel room offered much better views. Despite not being religious or a history buff this was my favorite museum in Florence. What I got out of my experience was a greater insight and appreciation for Florence's most significant attraction.
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Jay Y.

Yelp
People are willing to line up to enter the Duomo and even climb the Dome, but very little people know that the true treasures lie near them. Here's a little secret: some of the stuff you see on the outside, including the Baptistery's bronze Door of Paradise, are replicas and the original are stored for better preservation in this often-ignored museum! If you want to see more about the Duomo and truly appreciate this architectural splendor even more, you cannot miss this museum. Newly renovated, Museo dell'Opera del Duomo is indeed a world-class museum worthy of the Duomo that it exhibits. Here, you will find all the original statues of the facade, the Door of Paradise, and many things that are no longer in the Duomo such as the removed choir gallery! Better yet, you will also find precious relics such as St John the Baptist's jawbones and significant artworks like Michelangelo's "Florence Pieta" This museum is well-organized and modernized, and has many interesting and engaging explanations to give you a better understanding of the many aspects of the Duomo such as its history and its construction process. While the Duomo is already impressive at first sight even without knowing a thing about it, I guarantee that you will love the Duomo more after learning about why you should be even more impressed with this symbol of Italian Renaissance. Besides, you already paid a €15 combined admission for the Duomo complex, so if you are already visiting the Duomo, you cannot miss this museum! --- tl;dr version: 1) Often-ignored museum that is the true treasure of the Duomo complex 2) Houses many originals like the Baptistery's Door of Paradise and other artworks 3) Well-organized, modernized museum that aims to engage and should not be missed!
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Olga V.

Yelp
We had the hardest time trying to find where the heck you get a ticket for this place. We went to the location of the museum and they wouldn't issue us a ticket. Told us to go back to a ticket counter and get one. But no one knew where to get one. So we didn't even get to do this. It was just a mess. So hope you have better luck. We just did other things. DUOMO IS FREE. as in the church. So you don't need a ticket for that. Only to climb the tower. But if you have the tower ticket then you get to do this museum as part of that.
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Seamus M.

Yelp
This place was amazing! One ticker gives you access to the Duomo itself, the baptismal, the museum and a VIP guided tour to the top of the dome! Don't miss out and wait in line all day. Book your ticket in advance or online because it will sell out. The views from the top are amazing!
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Ashley H.

Yelp
Very nice, air conditioned treasure behind the dome in the yellow building. After using the bag lockers (free and mandatory), we went inside. I had just had a pretty miserable experience at the duomo itself, but this made me feel better. As soon as I walked in, I saw a bathroom and it was free! I did a little giddy dance with a minor squeal, got laughed at by the hubs, and went in. Toilet seats!!! Clean!!! Soap, paper towels, cold water!!! Hallelujah!!! Oh yeah, and the art was pretty awesome, too. The original bronze doors from the baptistery are the main attraction, but even our quick run through the rest of the museum was nice. If you buy the ticket for the duomo, remember that it includes all the sites whether you visit them or not. This is included. I recommend this over the dome any day!

Lloyd L.

Yelp
Do not bring your valuables here. They make you check in your bag. One person insisted on keeping her passport. The guard said "NO". I stayed behind and held on to my party's passports/wallets and other valuables while they went in. The guards are a little short with people. Maybe it's the culture. Maybe they are tired of turning people away.