When traveling to Florence, Italy, you should consider a visit to the Church of Santa Maria Novella. The building’s history is vast with its architectural focus on Gothic design while the interior includes original art such as Masaccio’s “Trinita,” Giotto’s “Crucifix” and Ghirlandaio’s frescoes, which fill the Tornabuoni chapel.

Dominican friars built the original convent structure between 1279 and 1357. The building’s lower section is thought to have been completed by Fralacopo Talenti da Nipozzano, a Dominican architect. Also, Leon Battista Alberti completed the upper section almost 100 years later in 1470. Therefore, when you visit the church, you’ll be viewing the oldest church in Florence that contains its original architecture.

Upon entering the building, you’ll be surprised at its size. Furthermore, the initial blueprint was allegedly designed by Brunelleschi, who created Duomo’s cupola. The “Trinita” painting will be on the far wall in front of you. This riveting masterpiece of Mary is one of the first paintings in the world to depict perspective. Also, the Mary painting presents her as an older mother instead of the young version you often see in religious artwork.

During the first years of the church, the walls were completely covered with frescoes. Unfortunately, during the 16th century, Vasari painted over them with orders from Cosimo de Medici. He even painted over the “Trinita.” However, the uncovering of the mural during the church’s refurbishment around 1860 encouraged expert restoration.

You’ll see the “Crucifix” painted by Giotto in the middle of the central nave since each crucifix he painted was meant to be placed in the same spot. Also, notice the space around the crucifix as you should remember the death of Christ when admiring the mural. Furthermore, the painting features incredible detail.

On the right side of the church’s main altar, you’ll see the Strozzi Chapel, which portrays scenes from the life of St. John the Evangelist. Painter Filippino Lippi is responsible for creating the beautiful murals. Additionally, he began working on the frescoes in 1487, but had to stop due to the Strozzi banishment. The painter finished his work in 1502, when the Strozzi came back to the city. Lippi died two year later making the frescoes one of his last pieces.

When visiting Florence, consider finding history away from the popular tourist attractions, and you’re sure to have an incredible experience that will belong just to you.