Basilica Di San Lorenzo

The Basilica di San Lorenzo is one of the largest churches in Florence, Italy which was consecrated in 393 by Saint Ambrose, Bishop of Milan. It used to give three distinguished experiences as it had three sections, Basilica, the Medici Library and the Medici chapels. The present building was designed by Brunelleschi and was re-built between 1421 and 1461.

The facade of the basilica is also further divided into three sections. The central section contains the doorways and windows, while the two side sections are occupied by a series of fourteen marble statues of saints and prophets.

The interior of the basilica is divided into a nave and two aisles, separated by a series of columns. The nave is barrel-vaulted, while the aisles are groin-vaulted. There are several artworks and artifacts contained within the Basilica di San Lorenzo, including Michelangelo's "Pietà" and Brunelleschi's octagonal "Baptistery". The basilica has a long and complex history, with a number of religious figures having been associated with it over the centuries. These include Saint Ambrose, Saint Augustine, Saint Jerome, and Pope Leo I. The church has also been linked to a number of important political figures, including the Medici family and Cosimo de' Medici.

• Marvel at the architecture of the church as the Basilica of San Lorenzo is considered one of the finest examples of Renaissance architecture in Florence. Pay attention to the façades that were designed by Filippo Brunelleschi and feature Corinthian columns and intricate sculptures.
• Make your way to the main altar area where you will find Michelangelo's sculpted Medici Chapels that contain some of his finest work, including marble sculpture of the Madonna and Child.
• Stroll around the Medicea Laurenziana Library which is located at the back of the church and is one of Michelangelo’s most famous works.
• Take a break and learn the history of the burial place of all the principal members of the Medici family from Cosimo il Vecchio to Cosimo III.

The best time to visit the Basilica di San Lorenzo is during mid-year (June-September). Based on its spectacular array of artwork, architecture, and religious significance this is the best time to visit the basilica because of the warm temperatures, fewer crowds and ideal daylight hours for sightseeing.

This is usually a great time to visit if you want mild weather conditions with fewer crowds while taking advantage of all the incredible sights within Basilica di San Lorenzo including "The Cappelle Medicee Mausoleum" which includes coffins with Michelangelo sculptures inside. 

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Tips To Visit Basilica di San Lorenzo

• Avoid flash photography in the Basilica, as the place is a house of worship and flash photography might cause issues with sensitive fixtures
• Dress appropriately for the sacred site and cover your shoulders, midriffs, and legs below the knee as a matter of respect for the place
• Do not bring food, water, and any sort of littering object inside the churchyard of the Basilica
• Refrain from carrying video recording equipment inside the Basilica as they are strictly prohibited 
• Make sure you choose a time appropriate for your visit with around 2 hours to spare so that you can extensively explore the Basilica.

Check This Out: Day Trips From Florence

By Air: Intercontinental flights don't show up at Florence's Vespucci Airport, thus most guests show up in the city via train or car, or from the close by Pisa Airport. From there you can take city transport which comes every thirty minutes to the main train station of Florence.

By Road: You can reach Basilica di San Lorenzo Florence from the airport by booking a Cab/Taxi. The journey by road from Florence Airport (FLR) is around 14 kilometers and will take an estimated 25 minutes by car.

By Bus: The Volainbus Airport Shuttle connects Florence Airport to downtown Florence. While the tickets can be purchased on board, they cost roughly five euros.

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