Il Duomo - Cattedrale de Santa Maria del Fiore
Florence's most popular site is its Duomo (cathedral), the Cattedrale de Santa Maria del Fiore. The huge Gothic duomo was begun in 1296, consecrated in 1436, and holds 20,000 people. The exterior, made of green, pink, and white marble, has several elaborate doors and interesting statues. Inside, Brunelleschi's Dome is a masterpiece of construction. Buy a ticket to climb the 463 steps to its top. To go inside, cover arms and legs. The Duomo is in Piazza del Duomo, free admission