Awakening the Duomo - Exclusive Early Entrance with Brunelleschi's Dome

Few landmarks in the world are as strikingly beautiful as the Duomo of Florence, with Brunelleschi’s extraordinary cupola and the annexed Florence Baptistry. The two incredible monuments boast as much architectural mastery outside as they contain captivating artistic and architectural masterpieces inside.

Any visitor to Florence will inevitably visit the Duomo, which rises up 116 meters high and dominates the skyline of this striking city. But very few will experience the rush of excitement that comes with unlocking the Cathedral at dawn and being the first inside while the rest of Florence is still fast asleep. 

It all starts at daybreak: as Florence is just waking up, your expert guide will lead you to the Duomo doors to meet the “clavigero”, the person in charge of opening this magnificent house of worship. The moment the key turns in the lock and the doors open, you'll begin to take in the interior while still dim and silent. Get ready to be blown away: the next thing the key bearer will do is turn on the lights, starting with those that reveal the glorious frescoed vault. Watch as illumination suddenly washes over the 3600 sq. meter masterpiece painted by Vasari and Zuccari. Admire the elaborate, vibrant “Last Judgment” fresco, watch the elders of the Apocalypse, the angels, and the saints come to life before your eyes.

Your guide will tell of the uncanny history of the Duomo’s dazzling clock painted by Paolo Uccello, which tells time from sunset to sunrise and point out other masterpieces within the interior of the church before introducing you to the over to the clavigero. This modern day keymaster will now unlock Lorenzo Ghiberti’s gilded “Gates to Paradise,” allowing you to access this sacred landmark well ahead of the general public. Watch as light slowly floods the octagonal building, and embraces the gleaming golden ceiling mosaics. Follow your guide through the Baptistry and learn of its hidden secrets and splendid masterpieces.

Last but not least, the final leg of this unforgettable tour will be a journey inside Brunelleschi’s larger-than-life cupola. Access the Duomo from a privileged entrance, the Porta Canonici open solely for your party, and climb up to the world’s most famous dome. Once on top, take in the heart-stopping cityscape and hear of Brunelleschi’s extraordinary talent, the artists who collaborated with him to construct the cupola.

The Awakening the Duomo of Florence guided tour is much more than a tour of Florence’s landmarks. It is an awe-inspiring experience you will cherish forever.