One of my favorite things about Italy is the magnificent architecture, especially of the churches and cathedrals. I’m not Christian, but I find their history and beauty fascinating. Other than The Vatican, the cathedral in Italy that enraptured me the most when I visited two years ago was the Basilica di Santa Croce in Florence. Besides having a commanding physical presence, it is home to the tombs of Michelangelo, Niccolò Machiavelli, and Galileo Galilei, and monument to the writer Dante. Here are some of my photos of the cathedral.

It’s the largest Franciscan church in the world. The original structure was built in the 1200s, with much of it later being added in the 1400s. The marble facade was added in the mid-1800s by a Jewish architect (which explains the prominent Star of David).

In addition to the famous tombs and monuments inside, the museum has many ornate frescoes and paintings, multiple chapels within the church, and a separate exhibit area.

Have you ever been to the Basilica di Santa Croce?