Church of San Michele, Florence

Church of San Michele, Florence

The Church of San Michele in Florence, Italy, is located on what was originally the vegetable garden of the Convent of San Michele, hence it is also known as the “Orto di San Michele.” It is one of Florence’s most outstanding religious buildings.

The Church of San Michele in Florence was originally a grain market established in 1337. Between 1380 and 1404, it was converted into a church for Florence’s major guilds. This is a very impressive square-shaped building: the first floor features 13th-century arches that were originally part of the grain market loggia, the second floor was used as offices, and the third floor served as one of the city’s granaries to help guard against famine and siege. Later in the 14th century, various guilds took responsibility for commissioning statues of their patron saints to decorate the church façade. Today, these sculptures have been replaced with replicas, while the originals have been moved to a museum on the church’s first floor, where visitors can admire the original works every Monday.

The exterior façade of the Church of San Michele features 14 niches housing 15th-century masterpieces, including the Virgin and Child, the Four..., and Saint John the Baptist.

Orsanmichele

Must-visit reason: One of Florence’s most renowned religious buildings

Continent: Europe【Europe】

Country/Region: Italy[Italy]

Province/State: Tuscany Region [Toscana Region]

City: Florence [Florence]