Brunelleschi’s dome may have been in place for nearly 700 years, but, as the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo tells us, this was not the end of the cathedral’s evolution. The museum is a celebration of the Opera del Duomo, also known as the OPA, the guild of artisans that built and has maintained the cathedral of Florence since the 13th century. Visit the museum and return to the cathedral with fresh insights.
Get a sense of the sheer scale of the work being undertaken as you first enter, with the sight of the colossal 18th-century altar by Girolamo Ticciati that once stood in the baptistry. Nearby, look at some of the thousands of names gracing a wall celebrating the generations of artists, artisans and workers who have dedicated their lives to one of Europe’s most famous cathedrals.
In the central courtyard, marvel at the opulence of the so-called Gates of Paradise, the huge golden doors by Ghiberti that once formed the principal entrance to the cathedral, set amid a reconstruction of the original façade.
Linger near the figures of the sculpture gallery on the first floor or view them from the second-floor gallery. Their expressive faces once looked down at worshippers from the interior and exterior of the church.
See the unusual and arresting Penitent Saint Mary Magdalene by Donatello or Michelangelo’s The Depostition. Nearby is a selection of the church’s more than 600 relics. Climb to the top floor for a rooftop view of the dome.
The Museo dell’Opera del Duomo is located across the street from the rear of the Duomo, a 12-minute walk from Florence’s main train station. Parking in the area is extremely limited, especially during the summer.
Visit the museum daily from morning to evening. Varied ticketing options give access to the different sites related to the construction and maintenance of the cathedral. Purchase tickets at the museum entrance or other tourism sites.
