The Museo dell'Opera del Duomo stands on Piazza del Duomo in Florence, Tuscany, in the heart of the cathedral complex. It is the place where many of the original works from that complex are kept, moved indoors to protect them and to show them closely.
What you will see
The collection brings together sculptures from the cathedral group, among them pieces by Michelangelo, Donatello and Ghiberti. Two highlights are the original Gates of Paradise, the gilded bronze doors that Ghiberti made for the Baptistery, and Michelangelo's Pietà. Seeing these up close gives a sense of detail that is hard to get from the square outside.
Planning your visit
- The museum is at Piazza del Duomo, 9, 50122 Firenze, a short walk from the cathedral and the Baptistery.
- It suits visitors interested in sculpture, Renaissance art and the history of Florence's great religious monuments.
- It can also be known as the Opera del Duomo Museum, so look for either name when searching or asking for directions.
- To check current arrangements, you can call +39 055 230885 before you go.
Because the museum sits so close to the cathedral and the Baptistery, it works well as part of a single morning or afternoon in the centre. Plan a little time to walk the surrounding streets and piazzas, which hold much of the city's best-known architecture.
