The Cathedral Museum, which opened at the end of the 19th century, houses works of art removed from the exterior of the Cathedral, Baptistery and Campanile for conservation reasons. The collection illustrates the history of Florentine sculpture during the construction of Santa Maria del Fiore, commencing with Arnolfo di Cambio’s statues for the initial, partial façade.
The Cantorie (choir balconies) by Donatello and Luca della Robbia are amongst the most significant sculptures of the 15th century, together with the panels of the Gates of Paradise realized by Lorenzo Ghiberti for the Baptistery (as well as the other two doors of the Baptistery, made by Ghiberti and Andrea Pisano) and Donatello’s Mary Magdalene.
Michelangelo’s Pietà also came from the Cathedral. In addition, the museum has various wooden models of the dome and a series of tools illustrating the workings of Brunelleschi’s building site. The Cathedral treasures include the splendid Altar of Saint John, produced by Florentine goldsmiths for the Baptistery.
Museo dell'Opera del Duomo
Piazza del Duomo, 9, 50122 Firenze FI, Italia
The main entrance is connected to the street level. The museum is fully accessible and provided with elevators giving access to the three floors and the terrace. Disabled toilets are also available. Rooms are equipped with seats to rest. Inside the museum, it is possible to find maps to get oriented.
Furthermore, a tactile path called “TouchAble”is available. It offers a deep and exciting experience to people with visual impairments, and develop a multi-sensory fruition of the works of art.
Wheelchairs are provided both at the Cathedral and at the Museum. Staff is always ready to help. Admission to the entire complex is free of charge for disabled people and their carer, showing id and disabled certification at the ticket office. For more information and reservations: accessibilita@duomo.firenze.it.
