... begun in 1296 by the Florentine architect Arnolfo di Cambio, continued on a somewhat different plan by his successors, and crowned with the great dome (1420-61), designed by Filippo Brunelleschi. The facade, although not built until late in the 19th century, is faithful in style to the rest of the edifice. The cathedral is the most imposing structure on the right bank of the Arno. The Duomo of Florence is one of the most important gothic building in Italy. Like many holy places in Europe, there is no way to tell for just how long this site has been revered. Local lore says there has been some sort of shrine on this spot since ancient Roman times. The earliest record of this location is in 1128 when the cathedral on this spot was moved and eventually became the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. Also known as: Il Duomo Formally: the Cathedral of ...

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