The Badia bell tower is one of the main reference points in the panorama of the city. Under restoration for some time now, the Badia is part of the monastery which was the home of the Benedettini. It was founded in 978 by the mother of a famous Florentine figure, Count Hugo of Tuscany. The Pandolfini chapel, which is in front of the 15th century atrium, was restructured on the remains of the previous smaller church of S. Stefano. There are lectures of Dante given here in memory of the first public reading by Giovanni Boccaccio of Dante's "Divine Comedy" which happened in 1373. Inside the Badia, there are two works in particular which should be noted: the marble tomb of the Marquis Hugo of Tuscany (which was made by Mino of Fiesole), and the "Apparition of the Madonna to St.Bernard" by Filippino Lippi.
Know Before You Go
This church has somewhat erratic opening times
Off Limits
Put your voicemail to work, and turn off those cell phones before you enter.
A picture may be worth a thousand words, but the words will have to do in this case—no cameras allowed.
Bring a tripod or steady hand—flash photography is not permitted at this venue.
As tempted as you may be to add to that vacation footage, keep the video camera in the case—they're not permitted here.
Check your dress before you go, and make sure you have on the right attire—there are certain clothing requirements here.
Culture
Shorts and miniskirts that expose the leg are considered unseemly at this site, so wear pants or a modest skirt when you visit.
Skip the tank-tops and wear something with sleeves (either short or long), as bare shoulders are inappropriate here.
It's bad form to wear a hat inside at this location, so remember to doff yours at the door.
Respect the quiet environment; do not visit during services.
Times & Dates
Open Hours: 5p-7p Tu-Th
Visit Time: 30min-1hr
Average Wait Time: None
Notes: No video or photography allowed.
Price: Free
Exposure
Indoor with no climate control.
Restrictions:
Put your voicemail to work, and turn off those cell phones before you enter. A picture may be worth a thousand words, but the words will have to do in this case—no cameras allowed. Bring a tripod or steady hand—flash photography is not permitted at this venue. As tempted as you may be to add to that vacation footage, keep the video camera in the case—they're not permitted here. Check your dress before you go, and make sure you have on the right attire—there are certain clothing requirements here.
Age Recommendations/Requirements
Ages Admitted:
Infants/Toddlers (0-3yrs), Children (4-8yrs), Pre-teen (9-12yrs), Teen, Adult, Senior
Ages that would most enjoy this site:
Adult, Senior
Groups that would most enjoy this site:
Groups, Solo Travelers
Transportation
Nearest Train or Bus:
Bus: A, 14, or 23
Best Modes of Transportation:
Bicycle
Walking
Parking Availability: No
Notes: It is strongly recommended to not drive or try to park near Badia.