Dome of Santa Maria Cathedral - Florence

Building of the Cathedral of Santa Maria (Florence Cathedral) commenced in 1296, based on a design by Arnolfo di Cambio. The cathedral was consecrated in 1434 with the completion of the dome, designed by Filippo Brunelleschi. However the cathedral was not considered completed until the placement of Verrochio's copper ball atop a lantern, also designed by Brunelleschi, in 1469. Cathedral facade, considered to be decoration, would not be completed until the 19th century. The Dome is pictured here at sunset.