The Duomo, more properly the Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore, serves as symbol for Florence and supports the third largest dome in the world, following only St. Peter’s in Rome and St. Paul’s in London. Filippo Brunelleschi’s mammoth structure, finished in 1436, towers above the rest of the city.

Related blog: "On the road: Galileo's Italy, Day Four," by David J. Eicher, Editor  

Photo credit: David J. Eicher