Florence - Santa Croce (PiP)

Florentina was established in Roman times as a settlement for veteran soldiers. The name had changed already when young Charlemagne conquered the town in 774. It became part of the Duchy of Tuscany, with Lucca as the capital. Around 1000 Margrave Hugo chose Florence as residency instead of Lucca. After the death of Matilda of Tuscany (1115), the Florentines formed a republic ruled by a council. The town prospered, despite a constant fight between the different factions and noble families.

In the 15th century, Florence was among the largest and wealthiest cities in Europe. This was when the Medici family entered the political scene. As a dynasty of art-loving, power-hungry bankers, they made Florence the birthplace of the Renaissance.
The Basilica di Santa Croce is the principal Franciscan church in Florence and the largest Franciscan church worldwide.

Legends tell, that it was founded by St Francis himself, but proven is that the construction was begun outside the city walls in 1294. The floorplan is a Tau cross, which is a symbol of St Francis. The design was done by Arnolfo di Cambio, a very busy architect, as he worked as well at the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore and the Palazzo Vecchio. The church was consecrated in 1442 by Pope Eugene IV.

On Nov. 4. 1966 the Arno River flooded Florence, including Santa Croce. The water reached a height of 5 meters here, bringing mud, pollution, and heating oil. The damage to buildings and works of art was really severe. It took decades to repair, what could be repaired.

In 2013 the frescoes within the apse seen here, were hidden under scaffolding as they needed conservation and restoration. In the late afternoon a a small group of tourists was allowed to climb up the scaffolding.

Of course with a knowledgeable guide - and unfortunately without cameras. It was incredible to see the paintings from that small distance!