According to the website the Baptistry at Santa Marie del Fiore is closed for renovations. Does anyone know how long it's supposed to be closed?
Posted by
Minnesota 🎒
15843 posts
This according to The Florentine:
https://www.theflorentine.net/2021/01/22/florence-baptistery-restoration-pictures/
"On January 25, the scaffolding will start to be removed on the completed (four of the eight) sides and moved to the four sides now to be restored. Despite a slump in tourism caused by the pandemic, Opera di Santa Maria del Fiore, the administration that governs Florence’s cathedral complex, decided to continue restoring the baptistery, with the aim of completing the feat by the end of 2021."
I'll cross fingers for our travelers going in 2022 - the thing was positively brilliant even BEFORE restoration - but whether they get 'er done by end of this year or not is anyone's best guess. Delicate projects involving very old materials can move on timelines all their own!
Posted by
OP
St Louis, MO
33 posts
Well shoot, that's what I was afraid of.
Yeah, given that the Vasari corridor was supposed to be reopened in...2019? I'm not going to hold my breath.
Thanks for the info!
Posted by
Minnesota 🎒
15843 posts
LOL! Nooooo, we don't want you turning blue!
Breathe easy, Alice, as hope is not yet lost! But even if it's still closed when you go, there are many, MANY other wonderful things to see in Florence!
Posted by
Minnesota 🎒
15843 posts
Alice! Hope you're still out there? Good news! According to "The Florentine", they've re-opened the Baptistry earlier than expected:
https://www.theflorentine.net/2021/07/05/florence-baptistery-reopens-july-3-2021/
It doesn't mean that the restoration is complete - the remaining 4 of the 8 walls are yet to be finished (slated for end of 2021) and are behind scaffolding - but at least you'll be able to see the completed 4 plus the magnificent ceiling if going this calendar year.