Basilica di Santa Croce, Florence: The Pantheon of Italy

Unlike the Dominicans, the Franciscans focus more on charity and poverty relief. Basilica di Santa Croce (9:30-17:30, open Sunday afternoons). The Firenze Card can be used. The Basilica di Santa Croce is the largest Franciscan church in the world, founded in 1294 and designed by Cambio (designer of Palazzo Vecchio). The main structure was not completed until 1385, and it has undergone multiple renovations since, such as the cloister designed by Brunelleschi (Old Sacristy) and the 19th-century facade. The Cappella Bardi di Vernio and Cappella Pazzi not only feature Giotto's frescoes and Donatello's reliefs, but more famously, this is the renowned "resting place" where the tombs of Dante, Michelangelo, Galileo, Ghiberti, and Rossini are located. Michelangelo's tomb, designed by his "beloved disciple" Vasari, features three marble statues representing the master's achievements in painting, sculpture, and architecture. Additionally, every June, the traditional Florentine football match, Calcio Storico Fiorentino, is held in the small square in front of the church. All four participating teams must be local residents, and this event has existed for over four centuries, since 1580.