Basilica San Miniato al Monte

The Basilica of San Miniato al Monte is situated on a hill outside Florence near the Piazzale Michelangelo. The church has a brilliant Romanesque interior. Arriving here at the hilltop, you will be welcomed by scenic views of the city below.

Right in the centre is the remarkably magnificent Cappella del Crocefisso, a work by three brilliant artists—Michelozzo, Agnolo Gaddi and Luca della Robbia. Behind this is a Romanesque crypt. In a corner is the sacristy embellished with frescoes by Spinello Aretino depicting the life of Saint Benedict. This small Romanesque church was built between the 11th and 13th centuries with green and white marble making symmetric patterns. The church was consecrated in the name of Saint Miniato. Legend has it that he flew to this spot after his death. Another version also says that he arrived here with his head held under his arm. There is a cemetery behind the church, called Cimitero Monumentale delle Porte Sante, where prominent Florentines are buried, such as Carlo Collodi (Lorenzini), author of Pinocchio, philosopher Giovanni Papini, and painter Pietro Annigoni.