Badia Fiesolana

The Badia Fiesolana (the Abbey of Fiesole) can be found on the outskirts of Florence, in the locality of San Domenico. It is important because it was the official place of worship for the people of Fiesole during the period of the Dark ages through to 1028.

It was not until 1456 and determined interventions by Cosimo the Elder, that the much larger adjoining abbey was built. The front of the church does not have the finish and splendour of other monuments in the region because Cosimo the Elder died prior to its completion (and he was its driving force).  Having said that it is still a marvelous piece of architecture - the chapel uses the white and green Roman styling typical of the 12th century - and the view from the Badia overlooking Florence is worth it just on its own merit. To the right of the church sits the convent where Cosimo the Elder resided. Today it is home to the European University Institute.

How to get there

This visit is best combined with a trip to Fiesole. The Number 7 bus departs from the main train station in Florence and will stop in San Domenico. It is then just a short walk down the hill to enjoy this monument. Afterwards you can take the same bus up to Fiesole.

Details

Badia Fiesolana
Via Dei Roccettini
Open 9am-6pm Sat 9.30am-1pm.
Tel: 055 9155.
Admission: free

Where can it be found?

Via dei Roccettini, 9, Fiesole, Italia