Architecture
by ARNOLFO DI CAMBIO

Although Arnolfo's architectural activity is now less clearly defined than his work as a sculptor, in Vasari's view his reputation was based on his architecture. The only documentary evidence of Arnolfo's work as an architect relates to the rebuilding of Florence Cathedral, plans for which were being made from 1294; the foundation-stone was consecrated in 1296. Construction ceased after Arnolfo's death and was resumed only after 1355; the cathedral was not finally completed until the 15th century.

Vasari attributed a number of other important buildings, renovations and urban development projects in Florence and its territory to Arnolfo: the third city wall; the Loggia of Orsanmichele, the Loggia dei Lanzi, the Palazzo Vecchio and the Piazza della Signoria; the choir of the Badia with its flanking chapels; the Franciscan church of Santa Croce and the older cloisters of the monastery attached to it; the marble facing on the Baptistery; and the castles of San Giovanni and Castelfranco in the Arno Valley. Only the Badia and Santa Croce are now seriously regarded as Arnolfo's work.

Preview Picture Data Info
Porta Campana (Torre di Arnolfo)
c. 1300
Photo
Castelfranco di Sopra, Province of Arezzo


View of the interior
begun 1294
Photo
Santa Croce, Florence


View of the nave and choir
begun 1294
Photo
Santa Croce, Florence


View of the Piazza della Signoria
1298-1340
Photo
Piazza della Signoria, Florence


View of the Palazzo Vecchio
1298-1340
Photo
Piazza della Signoria, Florence


View of the Palazzo Vecchio
1298-1340
Photo
Piazza della Signoria, Florence


View of the Piazza della Signoria
1298-1340
Photo
Piazza della Signoria, Florence


Tower of Palazzo Vecchio
1299-1320
Photo
Piazza della Signoria, Florence


Exterior view
c. 1300
Photo
Palazzo Pretorio, San Giovanni Valdarno


Decoration of façade (detail)
c. 1300
Photo
Palazzo Pretorio, San Giovanni Valdarno



Summary of works by Arnolfo di Cambio
de Braye Tomb | Works in Rome | Ciboria in Rome
Presepio | Florence Cathedral | Works outside Rome | Architecture



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