A gothic gem in the heart of Florence, Orsanmichele is an extraordinary church and museum that showcases exquisite gothic architecture and magnificent sculptural masterpieces by some of the most iconic Florentine artists of the Renaissance.

The structure was originally built in the Middle Ages to house the city’s grain market, before being converted to a church in 1380. Decorating the exterior are many arched niches displaying various statues of patron saints. (Please note the original sculptures have been replaced by replicas for conservation purposes with the primary pieces moved to the museum gallery opposite the church).

Inside the church discover the wonderfully decorated marble tabernacle known as l’Orcagna which is an incredible example of Florentine Gothic sculpture. The piece was made in the mid-14th century to house Bernardo Daddi’s painting ‘Virgin and Child with Angels’, a piece which was created to replace Ugolino di Nerio’s “Madonna of Orsanmichele”, which was thought to have been lost in the fire of 1304. I actually found the most interesting side to view the shrine from was at the entrance where you buy your tickets, as you can see the detailed carvings and imagery much more clearly from there.

After you have enjoyed examining the beautifully frescoed columns and vaults, you can exit the church and cross over the street to access the museum where you will uncover the original statues which once decorated the sides of the building. These include works from Donatello, Andrea del Verrocchio, Lorenzo Ghiberti, Nanni di Banco, Baccio da Montelupo and Giambologna.