Florence, the Renaissance city

The Campanile, the 84 metres high free standing bell tower, designed by Giotto di Bondone, stands next to the Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore, usually called the Duomo, the main church of Florence. Construction of the Gothic cathedral to the design of Arnolfo di Cambio begun in 1296. The original façade, began in the 14th century, was never completed and torn down in the 16th century. The present ornate façade of red, green and white marble, designed by Emilo de Fabris, was only added between 1875-1887.