Many churches now operates like museums, charging a an admission fee to see their art treasures. Modest dress for men, women, and even children is required in some churces, and recommended for all of them-no bare shoulders, short shorts or short skirts. Be respectful of worshippers and the paintings; and don't use the flash light of your camera for taking pictures. Churches usually close from 12.00/12.30 to 15.00/16.00
FLORENCE CHURCHES AT A GLANCE
- Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore) Gothic cathedral with colorful facade and the first dome built since ancient Roman times. Hours: Mon Tue Wed and Fri 10.00-17.00, Thu 10.00-15.30, Sat 10.00-16.45 except first Sat of month 10.00-15.30, Sun 13.30-16.45
- Santa Croce Church Fourteenth-century church with precious art, tombs of famous Florentines, and Brunelleschi's Pazzi Chapel. Hours: Mon-Sat 9.30-17.30, Sun 13.00-17.30
http://florencebydenis.blogspot.it/2012/03/santa-croce-church.html - Santa Maria Novella Church Thirteenth Century Dominican church with Masaccio's 3-D painting. Hours: Mon-Thu and Sat 9.00-17.00, Fri and Sun 13.00-17.00
- San Miniato Church Sumptuous Renaissance chapel and sacristy showing scenes of St. Benedict. Hours: Daily Apr-Oct 8.00-19.00, Nov-March 8.00-13.00 & 14.30-18.00
- Santo Stefano al Ponte Vecchio XI and XII Century Romanesque style. Masterpieces of Buontalenti. Hours: Daily 10.00-18.00, when hosting concerts or exhibitions open till 10pm or later.
http://florencebydenis.blogspot.it/2011/09/curch-of-santo-stefano-al-ponte-vecchio.html
