Santa Croce is one of the oldest and largest Franciscan basilicas in the world and by far the most magnificent.
Some of history’s most influential artists have made their mark on the church,
from frescoes by Giotto and Agnolo Gaddi, to architecture by Brunelleschi's adjoining Pazzi Chapel,
and a Crucifix and Annunciation sculpted by Donatello.

The church was bult in 1294 by Arnolfo di Cambio, and contains memorials or tombs of such great men as
Michelangelo, Gallileo, Macchiavelli, Lorenzo Ghiberti, Leonardo Bruni, composer Rossini, Marconi,
and a memorial to Dante, who is buried in Ravenna.
It would take pages to detail the contributions of these individuals, all the most inspirational and creative in history.
A map showing their tombs and memorials can be found at the entrance before entering Sta. Croce.

The nave, seen here in all its glory, is famous for housing the tombs and memorials of these famous Florentines,
most of whom are also revered figures in the history of the world.

This year's trip to Florence was the first time in many years, that Sta. Croce nave has been free of restoration scaffolding,
partly due to the great flood of Novembe 4,1966. (see next image)