I have been to museums, before the Florence Duomo, where if you even get close to a famous piece of artwork a stern voice comes over a loud speaker saying, “Please step back from the artwork or do not touch”. Apparently, the oil in from human skin can discolor paintings…OOPs!

On my recent visit to Italy, I knew there were plenty of amazing things to do in Florence—paintings, sculptures and architecture. But, go figure, they really don’t like people to put their paws on these things; protecting them with fences, glass and other barricades.

Climbing to the top of the Florence Duomo was the highlight of my trip for so many reasons and one of the only opportunities to touch a piece of artwork on the sly.

The well-known fresco on the dome was surrounded by Plexiglass, but with a little hop and push up, I could reach the exposed portion. Now if only the two guards would stop looking my way! There was about a 30 second window to snap this photo of the culprit (me) sneaking a quick touch.  Success! Next time…the Statue of David better watch out when he sees me coming!

The interior of the dome of the Florence Duomo was commenced by painter, architect & author Giorgio Vasari. He began the fresco in 1572 and it was later completed by Frederico Zuccaro. Seeing it in person will take your breath away and I don’t think anyone would argue that it is a true masterpiece.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through my links, I earn a commission that helps to keep this blog running—at no extra cost to you. For more information read my full disclosure.

---

You Might Also Enjoy

Florence Bucket List: 40 of the Best Things to Do in Italy’s Top City
Northern Italy Dream: A Stay at a Luxury Farmhouse in Tuscany
Italian Food Bucket List: 50 Best Foods From Italy to Eat
Stay in a Tuscan Villa in Italy
Walk on the Via Dell’Amore Trail in Cinque Terre
Drink a Bellini at Harrys Bar in Venice, Italy
11 Things Restaurants in Italy Do Differently
Scale the 463 Stairs of the Florence Duomo
Things to do in Florence in a Day
Bucket List of 6 Amazing Northern Italy Views
Italian Adapters, Converters & Voltage (AKA: The Flat Iron Dilemma)
10-Day Northern Italy Itinerary